For someone who claims PF as one of their all-time favorite bands, I am woefully ignorant on their first few releases. I’ve given all of them a few listens, but everything pre-DSotM never appeal to me at all. There are a few exceptions – Saucerful of Secrets has some good tracks, and ‘Echoes’ is one of my favorite songs by anyone. But otherwise the material is weak, especially in light of how solid some band’s first albums can be.
I hate to say I am glad Syd tripped out because that would be crass, but if he hadn’t, PF would have just been another footnote in the late-60’s psychedelic music scene along with the Strawberry Alarm Clocks of the world.
Regarding the poll, I feel DSotM-WYWH-A-TW are the best 4-album stretch any band has ever crafted, and Floyd’s reputation is secure on those alone. I’d put Animals and The Wall, (since it was my first real PF album and holds special significance to me) at top, then WYWH, then DSotM.
I tried to get in to The Final Cut, but just never could.
I would really give A Momentary Lapse of Reason high marks if it didn’t sound so horrible to me. I think Delicate Sound of Thunder shows it does have some good songs though.
The Division Bell has my favorite Floyd song (‘High Hopes’) but is otherwise forgettable.