Yet another proof that Hammil is genius as a vocalist. So theatratical performance. Not only vocal abilities, but a lot of voice actor work. And the rest of the band easily leveled to its frontman. Great stuff.
Godbluff and Still Life are the underrated Masterpieces By Van der Graaf. Every song on Godbluff leads into each other Arrow And The Sleepwalkers are amazing. Still Life is a Great album to do after Godbluff. World Record is alright and is even more underrated than the other 2. Go in order youll enjoy it even more.
@@meurglysthefourth I agree, one of my favorites too. And best lyrics by Hammill, that's something, as all his lyrics are great. But you are right, it's fascinating.
This is my favorite track from VDGG, they can be so heavy and dark without using guitars and also uplifting and epic at the same time. You should also check out Robert Fripp's (King Crimson) solo album Exposure where Hammill gives some truly epic vocal performances in some of the tracks.
Godbluff is probably my favorite album from them. Very balanced! Their songwriting was very mature by this time. Are you planning to react to the next album (Still Life) later?
You must listen to Peter Hammill's solo work, especially Gog from In Camera and Betrayed from Over... or actually anything, from Chameleon in the Shadow of the Night onwards...
This album was my introduction to VdGG. I think I was eighteen. It blew my mind, and it and Pawn Hearts have always been neck and neck as my favorite. This was such a pleasurable reaction to watch. Just wait until you get to "The Sleepwalkers".....
And, strangely, cos i dont think is the better, there´s a Peter Hammill album that shine in my youngest years: And close as this. Only his voice, hauntingly deep, and his hands, magic hands, on piano. To manny of my yesterdays belong to these songs.
I always thought the undercover man was one's own shadow or subconscious like in a few of Hammill's other songs. It's the part of him that always seems to be there with the usual problems and habitual farce, and that it's more about self development. The rest of the album is top notch as well!
So glad you see this wonderful song as an ideal introduction to VDGG. That’s exactly why I recommend the Undercover Man to you in the early beginnings of your journey through Musicland. Back in 1975 it was my introduction to VDGG too and It’s still one of my overal favorite songs. The build up, Peters singing and that fantastic break. For me it’s a song of hope… after all you still have time…
Do you heard Fools Mate from Peter Hammill? What a great collection of litlle songs: Imperial Zeppelin, Happy, Candle, Re-awakening, Child, I once wrote some poems. Great songs, great album.
The "undercover man" represents the unknown side of personality, everyone has in oneself. And the glas in the first line shows the separation between the both personalities, so to say. As always, Peter tells us a story and with this story he is taking uns deep into the human soul. Thank you very much for reacting to this masterpiece (one of many created by Peter), VdGG were such a unique band, unrivaled up to these days.
My favourite song from my favourite VdGG album. Been waiting for a while for you to get back to this one! The remaining two are both wonderful as well, so hopefully you'll be following up with them soon!
I like the idea of a double personality within one person, one personality being undercover. Reminds me a lot of how Robert Pirsig described what happened to him in his first book: the inner person becoming the outer person, breaking through the barrier, with his son present as the one who believed in him all along. In fact, it fits suspiciously well
Jethro Tull’s more experimental sensitive theatrical brother from another… planet. Pretty weird good. This goes well with my just waking mind. What does Peter Gabriel, Daryl Hall, The Roches, and Peter Hammill have in common? Robert Fripp’s Exposure, it’s time. Peace and non flute fatigue Music
Afternoon, Justin. Dave from London. Amid all the Mysteries And Mayhem, you give us calm, good cheer... and great music. Never really got into VdGG back in the 70s, but thanks to you I am warming to Peter and the lads. As you say this song builds really well, and your description of the roles of each instrument is spot on. Brilliant reaction. My song reference above is a tribute to Robby Steinhardt whose passing was announced yesterday. His violin playing in Kansas was so central to their sound, either solo or blending with the other instruments, in a similar way to Ian Anderson's flute in Jethro Tull.
Godblufff, Still Life and World Record are my favourite run of VGG albums. They are perfect. This song is a perfect opener for the album and on the first time I went to see them they opened the gig with it. Sheer brilliance.
I remember when I bought this record as a import and cost me more, but it was worth it. When I heard the album in Boston at Emerson college , I enjoy it and after the finish , I wanted to go outside of the college. I came down the stairs and met the security guard and he has to sign in or out for us to leave, but I noticed he was listening to radio and guess what came on, why it was the under cover man on Boston radio, Because at the very end , the D.J said , That was the under cover man from there new album Godbluff and the artist name , Van Der Graff Generator. Wow in 1975 hearing that song on radio , what a time to live in.
This song brings back so many memories for me, mostly being drunk and singing this with friends walking home from the pub; I have no idea why we used to sing this drunk. I do have my own interpretation of what it's about but I'd rather not share it here so have PMed you on Patreon.
Coming back from the hiatus that followed Pawn Hearts, VDGG decided to go Easy Listening. Sort of. P.S.: just joking. I woke up from my siesta and found Justin's beautiful surprise.
I have a very deep personal relation with Peter's lyrics and this is my favourite song since I was 16. It always makes me cry and gives me hope at the same time. You still have time. Yes, Godbluff is the best album of their maturity but I first discovered VDGG and fell in love with them with H to He's Killer and House With no Door. The solo Hammill's song I would suggest you are (In the) Black Room from Chameleon and Flight from A Black Box, but I love little jewels like Ophelia from Sitting Targets and Just Good Friends from Patience (a classic. Not prog, tho)
I was expecting a change in 1975, but the band stayed true to their form. The keyboards are still organ and mellotron, and the vocals still have that dramatic spark.
@@chefren77 Could be, at least I noticed there isn't any Moog synth (a brave decision, considering the trends at the time). I also noticed lots of clarinet in the background.
@@bobholtzmann David is playing amplified saxophones, so it's difficult to say if he is playing something else in a studio recording. They did occasionally use instruments from the studio on recordings, like Mellotron on Pawn Hearts. There is a 1975 live recording of the entire Godbluff album here, but unfortunately the claustrophobic filming of the gig doesn't really provide many nice gear shots: ruclips.net/video/KZQ6lCwZFMk/видео.html As far as I know, on what we see in the second half of that video, the 1972 TV live, David's sax setup is not significantly different from 1975. Hugh has changed organs in between though and kept building gear and modifying his organs constantly throughout his VDGG career.
I think it's him getting drunk (here at the glass) and the undercover man is his own alter-ego. You should do some of his solo stuff... Fools Mate, Over, A Back Box, Fireships is a gem.
You should try something from Vital, the raw, warts and all live album. Banton is out in this period but the addition of Graham Smith on violin and Charles Dickie on cello brings a new aspect to the sound. The album starts with Ship of Fools which is as good a place to start as any, though Still Life with Hammill backed only by the strings until about halfway before the band explode into life is amazing! And Hammill's vocal on Last Frame - off the chart bonkers!
I've been enjoying your Peter Hammill/VDGG reaction videos. Would love to see you take on After The Flood or Darkness next for VDGG, and for Hammill solo I suggest (In the) Black Room/The Tower since it is truly epic. If you've already done any of these, I apologize. I tried to go through all of your Hammill related videos but it is possible I could have missed some.
Good choice to go back to this album. This is one of their best songs and albums. Arrow is a good one to learn to understand Peter Hammils voice and singing.
Hooray! Back to VDGG and with my favorite of their albums... and one of my favorite songs about descending into madness. Trying to keep track... other albums also started that need to be returned to/continued: Hot Rats - Frank Zappa, Pampered Menial - Pavlov's Dog Album's that need to be started, post haste: Heavy Horses - Jethro Tull, Free Hand - Gentle Giant And, as always, I must request Yezda Urfa and Culpeper's Orchard
... VdGG/Peter Hammill blew my mind away when I first heard them in 1977 - saw him live more than 20 times since then. The most underrated, but innovative and powerful musicians of our times. his music will survive for centuries, along with Ian Anderson, Gentle Giant and Frank Zappa ;-) ... - If you haven`t done before, check out the live album "Vital" IMO one of the very best live albums ever released, I would like to see your reaction :-) ... - b.t.w. , is there any "complete list" on your channel, where I can check all of your previous videos, so i knew if a suggestion makes sense? TY ...
The second-best album of VdGG (the best being "Pawn Hearts", but that one's certainly not for everyone), and that is a very tough choice; they made so many great albums (their live album "Vital" is incredibly brutal, by the way, and with a strange line-up: No Banton, instead Nic Potter on heavily distorted and brutal bass guitar, Graham Smith on violin and Charles Dickie on cello, synthesizer and e-piano, and Hammill on vocals and electric guitar and, on one track, piano. Jackson is there too, but due to some sound problem at the beginning of the concert he can not be heard on the first three tracks of the album. The technicians finally found a make-shift solution by running his saxes and flutes through the voice amps, so with the beginning of side two of the double album he can be heard).
"Childlike Faith in Childhood's End" from "Still Life". Very highly recommend this song. It really encapsulates both the depth of Hammill's existential questioning and Van Der Graaf as a band.
@@vdggmouse9512 I listened to Meurglys 3 everyday for about a month recently. I even grew to love the reggae jam at the end. Solo I would pick 'Louse' also. The gravity of the subject matter in Man-Erg and especially Childlike Faith handled so tactfully is why I would pick them. I hope JP gets back to hearing a VdGG/PH song a month at least.
@@markmaxwell1013 It's tough not to pick Childlike Faith for the lyrics alone. The way PH is able to so clearly relate the most difficult subject - and he succeeds effortlessly. BUT - for the synthesis of music and lyrics I choose Meurgly's. It is easy to understand - loneliness - no one but me and my guitar - and a long great jam that just fulfills me every time I hear it. Louse is like Childlike Faith in complexity - but it's musicality is so unique and powerful I had to put it on top as well. 1) Meurgly's 2) Louse 3) Childlike 4) Man-Erg 5) Sleepwalkers 6) Plague 7) Arrow 8) Still Life 9) Gog 10) Flight - did I miss anything?
@@vdggmouse9512 These would last me a looong time on a desert island. House With Door would have to be on my list and maybe Vision for sentimental reasons. Nice problem to have trouble trying to pick a top 10, 20 or even 30 songs. So many artists just burn out and lose their creativity after less than 10 albums. Hopefully new fans were created after seeing this video.
I was reading the lyrics during your reaction, tough to pin down the meaning other than a general sense of isolation and madness. The delayed entrance of the guitar was worth the wait, the high point for me.
Yeah, I said it here already. La Rossa and Arrow are my favorite songs. La Rossa touched me so deeply because I felt all he says in that song for a friend I loved (and still do).
The Undercover Man is my go-to karaoke song but, alas, it's never been on any karaoke system that I've ever seen. One day....one day... This is in the middle of an excellent run of albums from VdGG and confirms their uniqueness - though some have tried, there's never been anything quite like them (props also to Gentle Giant and Magma, about whom the same could be said) That's one of the main delights of prog. Many bands typify the genre but very few sound the same. Having said that, JP, I think you have heard enough to tackle The Tangent's reimagining of an early Yes tackling Genesis' Watcher of the Skies about two years before it was written. You read right.
Do me a favour please. Listen to Sibelius violin concerto in D minor, the one by Nigel Kennedy. I knew it, but when I heard this one I didn’t even recognise it at first. Tempos had before been stretched to fit LP 33rpm format, ie. Grave, lento. 23 minutes is a lot, after all. This one used the original tempo and made me fall in love with Scandinavian composers
I like the theatricality, and the crazy structure of The Undercover Man. But I'm not a great fan of most of the heavy-handed, dirge-like and plodding early VDGG. "Still Life" is where things get better for me, but "The Quiet Zone/ The Pleasure Dome" is the great one, imo. Tight and crisp - a sonic masterpiece with virtuoso playing. That one is in my top 10 Prog albums. ruclips.net/video/GU1ZQH3SoaM/видео.html
Certainly interesting, and some nice passages, partic in the second half. Melodically, it didn't entirely flow for me. Rather than an opener, felt like i'd tuned in three quarters of the way through a complex concept album. I'm on the fence, definitely needs more listens to consolidate my thoughts.
@@progqueen6219 "Mumps" is a masterpiece. Check out " Son of there's No Place Like Homerton " from the self titled Album. You need to know about National Health as well.
@@avantprog6902 Actually I do, I bought "Of Queues and Cures" at the same time. That album I've actually played a bit more, usually just the whole way through without analysing too much (tough I do love The Collapso. :)
Remember the name of the album .... Godbluff. That should give you a little more to go on as far as meaning goes. .... Christian - you got the score right! Did you play that number with your nearby casino or bookie?
@@Katehowe3010 I cry foul! The Giants batter had a check swing - but he didn't check - he went around. An obvious strike three. The game was over. We wuz robbed - really. The Dodgers were ripped off last night - so yes karma should be on our side. BTW - I was waiting for you - I knew you'd be tickled all over. Here we come San Francisco - we'll sweep this next three game series and the Giants will lose their three in a row and we'll be in SF all square! There - I got it all out of my system.
@@Katehowe3010 Inside the heart of a champion lies the never say die attitude that truly believes World Series Championships cost about 500 million dollars more than the 'other team' who only thought it costs about 300 million dollars more than the other team who spent 200 million dollars.........Is the season over now? Did The Dodgers already raise their championship flag? The parade is tomorrow! I'll be there! Plus - we don't have to wear our masks.
This is a perfect song apart from the second chorus getting a bit cheeseball. All the unique vocal inflections and asides are just unbeatable. You can almost tell that it’s setting you up for the mortal terror of some of the later tracks. There are clues
I guess I'm in opposition, but can't help it. For me the VdGG brilliance was how both the music, lyrics and the vocals carried the story especially in Pawn Hearts but in Godbluff and thereon the focus turned into Hammill's voice and lyrics and the role of the music was to back up the story and the vocals. The unpredictable elements just were not there anymore. Peter's solo album Over is great still.
That's a really interesting train of thought you guys have there. I don't know VdGG enough to say anything definitive, but on a general term it's difficult to combine commersiality with edge, one of them always seems to come up triumphant over the other. I havent't heard all the much VdGG (mostly Pawn Hearts), but I tend to gravitate most toward David Jacksons playing. I find it to be the best guide for exciting routes with emotional impact, without feeling forced into a specific emotional mould (type: "This is how you should feel").
@@ithaliem Well of the few complete albums I've heard (H to He and Pawn Hearts) so far, I know what songs I like, why and vice versa, So I'm not sure what you mean really?
@@progqueen6219 I was speking about myself and my thoughts naturally. I like the albums up to Pawn Hearts more than the albums after that because of the reasons I was talking about.
"The man is just a god when it comes to vocals." Definitely agree on that! This is why he has such a devoted cult following. Mixed with the multi-layered dramatic lyrics, such a perfect combination. The vocal dramatics on this album hit their peak with the song Arrow. Great review Justin! Keep up the good work!
Hey Mark - I wanted to send you a link to one of VdGG's greatest shows - their only performance in the USA - in NYC at the Beacon Theatre - in 1976. Just in case you've never seen/heard that show. So in order to contact you I went to JustJP and went to his reaction to Arrow. It's gone, Mark. Why would the video to Arrow be taken down? I don't know much about all the computer stuff - but the video for Arrow says 'unavailable.' ????? - I'm mad and mostly puzzled. Anyway - here's the NYC link - and look at that lineup of songs! ruclips.net/video/ITqdeFIGOjQ/видео.html Oh yeah - 3 days before this NYC show - in Canada at Massey Hall they played 'Louse' in addition to all these songs.
@@vdggmouse9512 Thanks for the link! I have never heard it and will listen to it tonight. I will make a special event out of it! You're right about the Arrow video. I got a message saying it is blocked in this country. I've never heard of a VdGG video of being blocked. Maybe because it is the new stereo mix? I haven't tried an out-of-country VPN. I hope this doesn't sour JP on doing VdGG reactions. He was just getting into a good VdGG rhythm again. BTW A random thought that comes to my mind is that even their band logo is an upside-down Penrose triangle. I mean even the lettering and band logo are genius! No other artist thinks like this. Thanks again!
@@markmaxwell1013 Enjoy buddy! I'm so pissed. See - all this BS always happens to VdGG. That's why people don't think of VdGG as being in the top tier as --- all those other bands that we know. It just sucks.
@@vdggmouse9512 JP still does KC and other bands that get blocked but I hope this is an exception because of the stereo remix. I don't understand why any artist or record company would want to block someone from promoting their music. PH has always been very generous about sharing his music so it must be the record company. They need to realize it is 21st century. If I find any new VdGG/PH gems I will let you know. Thanks again man, stay cool!
Man oh man, I do not like Pete Hamill's singing. It makes it impossible for me to enjoy the band. I do like many singers with unusual voices... Bjork, Dylan, Neil Young, Morrissey, etc. But Pete is just not my jam.
A high percentage of the time - when I introduce VdGG/Peter Hammill to someone you know what is the first thing they say? 'He sounds like David Bowie/He's copying David Bowie. It reads like you want to appreciate VdGG/PH - but you can't because of the vocals. One tip - next time you hear a song by them/him - get the lyrics in front of you and follow along. When you actually read what Hammill has written you may find appreciation is made easier. The next song that JP will cover on this album will be the song 'Arrow.' Arrow is the third of four songs on this album (Godbluff - 1975) - JP has already reviewed the second song 'Scorched Earth.' So when JP reacts to the song 'Arrow' - here's a link to the lyrics to that song - it really is a great song sung so well I want to give you the best of all opportunities to enjoy what I think is really a remarkable song. They have many - but this one is as well - www.sofasound.com/vdgcds/gblyrics.htm#3
@@roddmcleodable Thanks RhythmCloud - been into them for a half century - and like many prog groups/albums - for some reason it just takes a little more effort. If a prog fan likes Yes, Genesis, PF, or KC - they should like VdGG - unless they just don't like the singing. So I hear your problem - the same problem I have with the band Rush.
That is how I feel about Geddy Lee and why I never really got into Rush. The difference is Peter hammill has several octaves in his repertoire along with several styles of singing. You would probably like one of them if you give him the chance, maybe his solo stuff like Over.
![COLOMBIA vs. CHILE [4-0] | RESUMEN | ELIMINATORIAS SUDAMERICANAS | FECHA 10](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/TDjN4W3yy1k/mqdefault.jpg)
Yet another proof that Hammil is genius as a vocalist. So theatratical performance. Not only vocal abilities, but a lot of voice actor work. And the rest of the band easily leveled to its frontman. Great stuff.
This was such a good follow up to Pawn Hearts. I love the song, one of their best. Terrific reaction, you were on top form!
Ty ty!
Godbluff and Still Life are the underrated Masterpieces By Van der Graaf. Every song on Godbluff leads into each other Arrow And The Sleepwalkers are amazing. Still Life is a Great album to do after Godbluff. World Record is alright and is even more underrated than the other 2. Go in order youll enjoy it even more.
Arrow and La Rossa are maybe, my favorites from VDGG.
@@Rowenband Childlike Faith in Childhood's End is another VDGG masterpiece, with perhaps the best lyricism we've seen from Hammill
@@meurglysthefourth I agree, one of my favorites too. And best lyrics by Hammill, that's something, as all his lyrics are great. But you are right, it's fascinating.
This is my favorite album of theirs, and favorite song. Singing this in the car while parked in a rainstorm is heaven!
I second that. If asked for my favorite song of all time I have to decide between suppers teady and this puece :)
This is my favorite track from VDGG, they can be so heavy and dark without using guitars and also uplifting and epic at the same time. You should also check out Robert Fripp's (King Crimson) solo album Exposure where Hammill gives some truly epic vocal performances in some of the tracks.
Dark uplifting and hopeful at the same time. Not an easy task for a songwriter!
Oh yeah, his voice in Exposure !!!!
I agree. My favorite track as well
C'mon man...the guitar is there!!! You just not listen it because it is so well mixed.
Godbluff is probably my favorite album from them. Very balanced! Their songwriting was very mature by this time. Are you planning to react to the next album (Still Life) later?
The songwriting pre Godbluff was mature too!
We'll likely get to it🙂
Childlike Faith In Childhood's End!
Btw that riff under the sax solo was played on the clavinet by Hammill. This album has a lot of Hammill's clavinet.
You must listen to Peter Hammill's solo work, especially Gog from In Camera and Betrayed from Over... or actually anything, from Chameleon in the Shadow of the Night onwards...
I’d highly recommend The Silent Corner and the Empty Cage as an album listen. Later try Usher, but only when you’re ready.
And 'Flight' ofcourse
@@jayburdification We'll be long gone before JP gets to Usher. Well - I will be.
@@vdggmouse9512 I’m still not ready for it lol
@@jayburdification I agree with Usher, but why later ? It's one of his best and fulfilled solo work.
Van der Graaf had a darkness about them. Definitely an avant garde element akind to Crimson.
This album was my introduction to VdGG. I think I was eighteen. It blew my mind, and it and Pawn Hearts have always been neck and neck as my favorite. This was such a pleasurable reaction to watch. Just wait until you get to "The Sleepwalkers".....
And, strangely, cos i dont think is the better, there´s a Peter Hammill album that shine in my youngest years: And close as this. Only his voice, hauntingly deep, and his hands, magic hands, on piano. To manny of my yesterdays belong to these songs.
Yes, great albums. There is also Skeleton of songs where he performs a lot of VDGG and solo songs alone in concert.
Looking very much forward to Arrow, and your reaction to Hammill's vocals in there!
Agreed! I have been telling Justin this for months.
This song gives me goosebumps each time I listen it. And i have listened it hundreds of times.
@@Rowenband Absolutely, that final climax gives me chills every single time
The way PH builds the drama up to that point is genius!
I feel like it’s going to be a Van Der Graaf Generator kind of day. Great reaction to a wonderful track.
I always thought the undercover man was one's own shadow or subconscious like in a few of Hammill's other songs. It's the part of him that always seems to be there with the usual problems and habitual farce, and that it's more about self development.
The rest of the album is top notch as well!
I always thought it was about the Shadow self as well.
So glad you see this wonderful song as an ideal introduction to VDGG. That’s exactly why I recommend the Undercover Man to you in the early beginnings of your journey through Musicland. Back in 1975 it was my introduction to VDGG too and It’s still one of my overal favorite songs. The build up, Peters singing and that fantastic break. For me it’s a song of hope… after all you still have time…
I remember my first time listening to this beauty...35 years ago...this is my fave of all Music.
Do you heard Fools Mate from Peter Hammill? What a great collection of litlle songs: Imperial Zeppelin, Happy, Candle, Re-awakening, Child, I once wrote some poems. Great songs, great album.
The "undercover man" represents the unknown side of personality, everyone has in oneself. And the glas in the first line shows the separation between the both personalities, so to say.
As always, Peter tells us a story and with this story he is taking uns deep into the human soul.
Thank you very much for reacting to this masterpiece (one of many created by Peter), VdGG were such a unique band, unrivaled up to these days.
Ahh, what a wonderful song
This is one of my favorite tracks by them...love the hushed opening and the way it builds...
Man, I cannot WAIT for The Sleepwalkers
And I can't wait for Arrow. :-D
I'm so glad you come back to VDGG, and to this album, their best ! Great to hear you say “the man is just a god when it comes to vocals”.
My favourite song from my favourite VdGG album. Been waiting for a while for you to get back to this one! The remaining two are both wonderful as well, so hopefully you'll be following up with them soon!
Mine, too :)
I like the idea of a double personality within one person, one personality being undercover. Reminds me a lot of how Robert Pirsig described what happened to him in his first book: the inner person becoming the outer person, breaking through the barrier, with his son present as the one who believed in him all along. In fact, it fits suspiciously well
Jethro Tull’s more experimental sensitive theatrical brother from another… planet. Pretty weird good.
This goes well with my just waking mind.
What does Peter Gabriel, Daryl Hall, The Roches, and Peter Hammill have in common? Robert Fripp’s Exposure, it’s time.
Peace and non flute fatigue Music
Afternoon, Justin. Dave from London. Amid all the Mysteries And Mayhem, you give us calm, good cheer... and great music. Never really got into VdGG back in the 70s, but thanks to you I am warming to Peter and the lads. As you say this song builds really well, and your description of the roles of each instrument is spot on. Brilliant reaction.
My song reference above is a tribute to Robby Steinhardt whose passing was announced yesterday. His violin playing in Kansas was so central to their sound, either solo or blending with the other instruments, in a similar way to Ian Anderson's flute in Jethro Tull.
Well hearing that song again literally made me tear up, so you get a massive like sir. VDGG is an underrated gem
Well ty Sidney 🙂
Godblufff, Still Life and World Record are my favourite run of VGG albums. They are perfect. This song is a perfect opener for the album and on the first time I went to see them they opened the gig with it. Sheer brilliance.
I remember when I bought this record as a import and cost me more, but it was worth it. When I heard the album in Boston at Emerson college , I enjoy it and after the finish , I wanted to go outside of the college. I came down the stairs and met the security guard and he has to sign in or out for us to leave, but I noticed he was listening to radio and guess what came on, why it was the under cover man on Boston radio, Because at the very end , the D.J said , That was the under cover man from there new album Godbluff and the artist name , Van Der Graff Generator. Wow in 1975 hearing that song on radio , what a time to live in.
Yes! My favourite VDGG song. Love the build up.
Mine, too!
I think Hammil almost always is writting metaphoracily, and singing about himself
This song brings back so many memories for me, mostly being drunk and singing this with friends walking home from the pub; I have no idea why we used to sing this drunk.
I do have my own interpretation of what it's about but I'd rather not share it here so have PMed you on Patreon.
First time for me with this group.
Enjoyed it as well as your reaction. Thanks
Coming back from the hiatus that followed Pawn Hearts, VDGG decided to go Easy Listening. Sort of.
P.S.: just joking. I woke up from my siesta and found Justin's beautiful surprise.
I have a very deep personal relation with Peter's lyrics and this is my favourite song since I was 16. It always makes me cry and gives me hope at the same time. You still have time. Yes, Godbluff is the best album of their maturity but I first discovered VDGG and fell in love with them with H to He's Killer and House With no Door.
The solo Hammill's song I would suggest you are (In the) Black Room from Chameleon and Flight from A Black Box, but I love little jewels like Ophelia from Sitting Targets and Just Good Friends from Patience (a classic. Not prog, tho)
I was expecting a change in 1975, but the band stayed true to their form. The keyboards are still organ and mellotron, and the vocals still have that dramatic spark.
I don't think there is any Mellotron on Godbluff, just Organ and Peter's electric piano, maybe acoustic Piano as well
@@chefren77 Could be, at least I noticed there isn't any Moog synth (a brave decision, considering the trends at the time). I also noticed lots of clarinet in the background.
@@bobholtzmann David is playing amplified saxophones, so it's difficult to say if he is playing something else in a studio recording. They did occasionally use instruments from the studio on recordings, like Mellotron on Pawn Hearts.
There is a 1975 live recording of the entire Godbluff album here, but unfortunately the claustrophobic filming of the gig doesn't really provide many nice gear shots: ruclips.net/video/KZQ6lCwZFMk/видео.html
As far as I know, on what we see in the second half of that video, the 1972 TV live, David's sax setup is not significantly different from 1975. Hugh has changed organs in between though and kept building gear and modifying his organs constantly throughout his VDGG career.
@@chefren77 Interesting comments - I found that there is a soprano saxophone, that can be made to sound like a clarinet.
I think it's him getting drunk (here at the glass) and the undercover man is his own alter-ego. You should do some of his solo stuff... Fools Mate, Over, A Back Box, Fireships is a gem.
You should try something from Vital, the raw, warts and all live album. Banton is out in this period but the addition of Graham Smith on violin and Charles Dickie on cello brings a new aspect to the sound. The album starts with Ship of Fools which is as good a place to start as any, though Still Life with Hammill backed only by the strings until about halfway before the band explode into life is amazing! And Hammill's vocal on Last Frame - off the chart bonkers!
The new remixing is just amazing with Godbluff, the surround sound mix is simply iniatic.
Yes!
"Psychological Odysseys" is a great way to describe Hammill's lyrics.
I've been enjoying your Peter Hammill/VDGG reaction videos. Would love to see you take on After The Flood or Darkness next for VDGG, and for Hammill solo I suggest (In the) Black Room/The Tower since it is truly epic. If you've already done any of these, I apologize. I tried to go through all of your Hammill related videos but it is possible I could have missed some.
Thanks JP!
I really loved the triple hits on the ride cymbal. Really good drummer.
You don’t happen to take requests by any chance, do you?
Great choice, JP. Van der Graaf was one of the best prog bands. Peter Hammill is such a great artist. This song is brilliant!
Good choice to go back to this album. This is one of their best songs and albums. Arrow is a good one to learn to understand Peter Hammils voice and singing.
Hooray! Back to VDGG and with my favorite of their albums... and one of my favorite songs about descending into madness.
Trying to keep track... other albums also started that need to be returned to/continued: Hot Rats - Frank Zappa, Pampered Menial - Pavlov's Dog
Album's that need to be started, post haste: Heavy Horses - Jethro Tull, Free Hand - Gentle Giant
And, as always, I must request Yezda Urfa and Culpeper's Orchard
More Hammill please! The Margin is his best album... Flight best song
... VdGG/Peter Hammill blew my mind away when I first heard them in 1977 - saw him live more than 20 times since then. The most underrated, but innovative and powerful musicians of our times. his music will survive for centuries, along with Ian Anderson, Gentle Giant and Frank Zappa ;-) ... - If you haven`t done before, check out the live album "Vital" IMO one of the very best live albums ever released, I would like to see your reaction :-) ... - b.t.w. , is there any "complete list" on your channel, where I can check all of your previous videos, so i knew if a suggestion makes sense? TY ...
The second-best album of VdGG (the best being "Pawn Hearts", but that one's certainly not for everyone), and that is a very tough choice; they made so many great albums (their live album "Vital" is incredibly brutal, by the way, and with a strange line-up: No Banton, instead Nic Potter on heavily distorted and brutal bass guitar, Graham Smith on violin and Charles Dickie on cello, synthesizer and e-piano, and Hammill on vocals and electric guitar and, on one track, piano. Jackson is there too, but due to some sound problem at the beginning of the concert he can not be heard on the first three tracks of the album. The technicians finally found a make-shift solution by running his saxes and flutes through the voice amps, so with the beginning of side two of the double album he can be heard).
Yes, Vital was advertised as "From the most extreme live band in the world - the most extreme live album". Quite a claim. I think they pull it off!
"Childlike Faith in Childhood's End" from "Still Life". Very highly recommend this song. It really encapsulates both the depth of Hammill's existential questioning and Van Der Graaf as a band.
Totally agree! Probably my favorite VdGG song along with Man-Erg.
@@markmaxwell1013 My top two - Meurgly's and Louse - honorable mention Gog.
@@vdggmouse9512 I listened to Meurglys 3 everyday for about a month recently. I even grew to love the reggae jam at the end. Solo I would pick 'Louse' also. The gravity of the subject matter in Man-Erg and especially Childlike Faith handled so tactfully is why I would pick them. I hope JP gets back to hearing a VdGG/PH song a month at least.
@@markmaxwell1013 It's tough not to pick Childlike Faith for the lyrics alone. The way PH is able to so clearly relate the most difficult subject - and he succeeds effortlessly. BUT - for the synthesis of music and lyrics I choose Meurgly's. It is easy to understand - loneliness - no one but me and my guitar - and a long great jam that just fulfills me every time I hear it. Louse is like Childlike Faith in complexity - but it's musicality is so unique and powerful I had to put it on top as well. 1) Meurgly's 2) Louse 3) Childlike 4) Man-Erg 5) Sleepwalkers 6) Plague 7) Arrow 8) Still Life 9) Gog 10) Flight - did I miss anything?
@@vdggmouse9512 These would last me a looong time on a desert island. House With Door would have to be on my list and maybe Vision for sentimental reasons. Nice problem to have trouble trying to pick a top 10, 20 or even 30 songs. So many artists just burn out and lose their creativity after less than 10 albums. Hopefully new fans were created after seeing this video.
I was reading the lyrics during your reaction, tough to pin down the meaning other than a general sense of isolation and madness. The delayed entrance of the guitar was worth the wait, the high point for me.
You can really hear where Fish got some of his vocal mannerisms.
The list of people PH influenced is long!
Please do La Rossa off Still Life. Also anything off their live album "Vital" will blow your mind
Yeah, I said it here already. La Rossa and Arrow are my favorite songs. La Rossa touched me so deeply because I felt all he says in that song for a friend I loved (and still do).
The Undercover Man is my go-to karaoke song but, alas, it's never been on any karaoke system that I've ever seen. One day....one day...
This is in the middle of an excellent run of albums from VdGG and confirms their uniqueness - though some have tried, there's never been anything quite like them (props also to Gentle Giant and Magma, about whom the same could be said) That's one of the main delights of prog. Many bands typify the genre but very few sound the same. Having said that, JP, I think you have heard enough to tackle The Tangent's reimagining of an early Yes tackling Genesis' Watcher of the Skies about two years before it was written. You read right.
Welcome back to VdGG.
Godbluff, a great choice for more VDGG. :D
MERAVIGLIA !!!!!!
Do me a favour please. Listen to Sibelius violin concerto in D minor, the one by Nigel Kennedy. I knew it, but when I heard this one I didn’t even recognise it at first. Tempos had before been stretched to fit LP 33rpm format, ie. Grave, lento. 23 minutes is a lot, after all. This one used the original tempo and made me fall in love with Scandinavian composers
This is album is Pawn Hearts’ darker sister. The mood has to be right.
I like the theatricality, and the crazy structure of The Undercover Man. But I'm not a great fan of most of the heavy-handed, dirge-like and plodding early VDGG. "Still Life" is where things get better for me, but "The Quiet Zone/ The Pleasure Dome" is the great one, imo. Tight and crisp - a sonic masterpiece with virtuoso playing. That one is in my top 10 Prog albums. ruclips.net/video/GU1ZQH3SoaM/видео.html
Certainly interesting, and some nice passages, partic in the second half. Melodically, it didn't entirely flow for me. Rather than an opener, felt like i'd tuned in three quarters of the way through a complex concept album. I'm on the fence, definitely needs more listens to consolidate my thoughts.
Do more listens! It is now my favorite song all genres :)
Man, it's time for you to discover Hatfield and the North. One of the most beloved among progsters.
I love "The Yes No Interlude"! Just bought Rotters Club so I'm working my way through :)
@@progqueen6219 "Mumps" is a masterpiece. Check out " Son of there's No Place Like Homerton " from the self titled Album. You need to know about National Health as well.
@@avantprog6902 Actually I do, I bought "Of Queues and Cures" at the same time. That album I've actually played a bit more, usually just the whole way through without analysing too much (tough I do love The Collapso. :)
@@progqueen6219 There's a live performance of, " The Callapso ", on RUclips. That was my introduction. Pip Pyle RIP.
@@avantprog6902 Thanks, will have to check it out :) RIP indeed...
Sorry for the confusion, but wasn’t this already on the channel?
He started with Scorched Earth and then skipped to 2 earlier albums. So now he continues with Godbluff.
"Pictures of..." by Mussorgsky or ELP?
ELP :)
@@progqueen6219 :(
;)
Not far away, Justin is almost at eighteen thousand subscribers!
Childshood End from Still Life
Remember the name of the album .... Godbluff. That should give you a little more to go on as far as meaning goes. .... Christian - you got the score right! Did you play that number with your nearby casino or bookie?
@@Katehowe3010 Did you predict that 8-6 game too? one back!
@@Katehowe3010 I cry foul! The Giants batter had a check swing - but he didn't check - he went around. An obvious strike three. The game was over. We wuz robbed - really. The Dodgers were ripped off last night - so yes karma should be on our side. BTW - I was waiting for you - I knew you'd be tickled all over. Here we come San Francisco - we'll sweep this next three game series and the Giants will lose their three in a row and we'll be in SF all square! There - I got it all out of my system.
No - not much better. Now that I'm at work I will.
@@Katehowe3010 Let's see what they're made of. Definitely struggling now.
@@Katehowe3010 Inside the heart of a champion lies the never say die attitude that truly believes World Series Championships cost about 500 million dollars more than the 'other team' who only thought it costs about 300 million dollars more than the other team who spent 200 million dollars.........Is the season over now? Did The Dodgers already raise their championship flag? The parade is tomorrow! I'll be there! Plus - we don't have to wear our masks.
This is a perfect song apart from the second chorus getting a bit cheeseball. All the unique vocal inflections and asides are just unbeatable. You can almost tell that it’s setting you up for the mortal terror of some of the later tracks. There are clues
I guess I'm in opposition, but can't help it. For me the VdGG brilliance was how both the music, lyrics and the vocals carried the story especially in Pawn Hearts but in Godbluff and thereon the focus turned into Hammill's voice and lyrics and the role of the music was to back up the story and the vocals. The unpredictable elements just were not there anymore. Peter's solo album Over is great still.
I think I know what you mean, and agree! I love all VdGG periods but the earlier period JUST has the edge!
That's a really interesting train of thought you guys have there. I don't know VdGG enough to say anything definitive, but on a general term it's difficult to combine commersiality with edge, one of them always seems to come up triumphant over the other.
I havent't heard all the much VdGG (mostly Pawn Hearts), but I tend to gravitate most toward David Jacksons playing. I find it to be the best guide for exciting routes with emotional impact, without feeling forced into a specific emotional mould (type: "This is how you should feel").
@@progqueen6219 Well, if you don't like some albums as much as the others, you have to figure out why.
@@ithaliem Well of the few complete albums I've heard (H to He and Pawn Hearts) so far, I know what songs I like, why and vice versa, So I'm not sure what you mean really?
@@progqueen6219 I was speking about myself and my thoughts naturally. I like the albums up to Pawn Hearts more than the albums after that because of the reasons I was talking about.
"The man is just a god when it comes to vocals." Definitely agree on that! This is why he has such a devoted cult following. Mixed with the multi-layered dramatic lyrics, such a perfect combination. The vocal dramatics on this album hit their peak with the song Arrow. Great review Justin! Keep up the good work!
Hey Mark - I wanted to send you a link to one of VdGG's greatest shows - their only performance in the USA - in NYC at the Beacon Theatre - in 1976. Just in case you've never seen/heard that show. So in order to contact you I went to JustJP and went to his reaction to Arrow. It's gone, Mark. Why would the video to Arrow be taken down? I don't know much about all the computer stuff - but the video for Arrow says 'unavailable.' ????? - I'm mad and mostly puzzled. Anyway - here's the NYC link - and look at that lineup of songs! ruclips.net/video/ITqdeFIGOjQ/видео.html
Oh yeah - 3 days before this NYC show - in Canada at Massey Hall they played 'Louse' in addition to all these songs.
@@vdggmouse9512 Thanks for the link! I have never heard it and will listen to it tonight. I will make a special event out of it!
You're right about the Arrow video. I got a message saying it is blocked in this country. I've never heard of
a VdGG video of being blocked. Maybe because it is the new stereo mix? I haven't tried an out-of-country VPN. I hope this doesn't sour JP on doing VdGG reactions. He was just getting into a good VdGG rhythm again.
BTW A random thought that comes to my mind is that even their band logo is an upside-down Penrose triangle. I mean even the lettering and band logo are genius!
No other artist thinks like this.
Thanks again!
@@markmaxwell1013 Enjoy buddy! I'm so pissed. See - all this BS always happens to VdGG. That's why people don't think of VdGG as being in the top tier as --- all those other bands that we know. It just sucks.
@@vdggmouse9512 JP still does KC and other bands that get blocked but I hope this is an exception because of the stereo remix. I don't understand why any artist or record company would want to block someone from promoting their music. PH has always been very generous about sharing his music so it must be the record company. They need to realize it is 21st century. If I find any new VdGG/PH gems I will let you know.
Thanks again man, stay cool!
@@markmaxwell1013 Yeah - you're right. He does the video whether it's blocked or not. It's not blocked now - JP must have sorted something out.
Man oh man, I do not like Pete Hamill's singing. It makes it impossible for me to enjoy the band. I do like many singers with unusual voices... Bjork, Dylan, Neil Young, Morrissey, etc. But Pete is just not my jam.
A high percentage of the time - when I introduce VdGG/Peter Hammill to someone you know what is the first thing they say? 'He sounds like David Bowie/He's copying David Bowie. It reads like you want to appreciate VdGG/PH - but you can't because of the vocals. One tip - next time you hear a song by them/him - get the lyrics in front of you and follow along. When you actually read what Hammill has written you may find appreciation is made easier. The next song that JP will cover on this album will be the song 'Arrow.' Arrow is the third of four songs on this album (Godbluff - 1975) - JP has already reviewed the second song 'Scorched Earth.' So when JP reacts to the song 'Arrow' - here's a link to the lyrics to that song - it really is a great song sung so well I want to give you the best of all opportunities to enjoy what I think is really a remarkable song. They have many - but this one is as well - www.sofasound.com/vdgcds/gblyrics.htm#3
@@vdggmouse9512 I appreciate you sticking up for your band!
@@roddmcleodable Thanks RhythmCloud - been into them for a half century - and like many prog groups/albums - for some reason it just takes a little more effort. If a prog fan likes Yes, Genesis, PF, or KC - they should like VdGG - unless they just don't like the singing. So I hear your problem - the same problem I have with the band Rush.
That is how I feel about Geddy Lee and why I never really got into Rush. The difference is Peter hammill has several octaves in his repertoire along with several styles of singing. You would probably like one of them if you give him the chance, maybe his solo stuff like Over.
@@vdggmouse9512 When people have told me they don't like his voice I usually reply by saying WHICH ONE? He is a vocal chameleon after all.