You can appreciate why she needs the support, and I like to “spread the...
I think you’ll find it much more than we first let on, and hope...The Wright Stuff
Ξ November 12th, 2008 | → 0 Comments | ∇ Music is Life |
This post is long overdue, but in light of my lengthy devotion to Pink Floyd, quite necessary. I was?very much?saddened to read of Richard Wright’s passing several weeks ago. As one of the founding members of Pink Floyd he contributed such a significant atmosphere to their sound that his departure from the band was keenly felt by myself and legions of fans. ?
By my estimation, I’ve seen them in concert sixteen times from April 1968 on their “Saucerful of Secrets” and “More” tour all the way up to their Wright-less “The Division Bell” shows. One of my most vivid memories come from those early shows, and Richard working his magic on his keyboard. Through the various “hazes” of time and memory and other contributing factors (ahem) I can always see in my mind’s eye the image from one show of his motions in moving a rotating mic (I think) as the music seemed to come washing in from every corner of the room; it was as if he was directing the influx of music into my being from his solitary stand on the stage. In those early days the Pink Floyd sound was heavily keyboard-oriented while David Gilmour was getting his considerable chops together, and Richard seemed to carry the sound on his slender shoulders so very well. On those early albums he really made his presence felt; he was, and always will be, an integral part of the band and their music.
For a great visual example of Pink Floyd?in their pre-Dark Side of the Moon prime, seek out the Pink Floyd Live at Pompeii DVD, preferably the Director’s Cut. You’ll see Richard at his best, and the band is in absolute top form during this Meddle period. An outstanding documentary and live show, plus you get a history and geographical lesson as well!
For a full taste of this man’s talent, look for his 1978 album Wet Dream, which contains?a mutlitude of?colorful aural gems of wonder and delight, and highly recommended for Floyd fans. And as a parting goodbye, I’d like to leave you with this little tribute from Atom Heart Mother, Richard’s “Summer ’68″:
Rest In Peace, Richard; it’s time for your great gig in the sky…