When Pink Floyd released A Momentary Lapse of Reason in 1987, it marked a significant point in the band’s storied discography and the broader rock music landscape. This album was the first to emerge after the departure of Roger Waters, the band’s principal lyricist and conceptual leader, and thus carried the weighty task of redefining Pink Floyd’s sound and artistic direction without him. With David Gilmour stepping into the role of creative captain, the album stood as both a departure and a continuation of the band’s legacy.

A Momentary Lapse of Reason is a complex blend of the familiar and the new, featuring Gilmour’s evocative guitar work and a sonic palette that both echoes the band’s past and ventures into fresh territory. While earlier albums like The Dark Side of the Moon and The Wall were deeply conceptual and narrative-driven, A Momentary Lapse of Reason focuses more on musical textures and atmospheric soundscapes, signaling a shift from the grandiose storytelling of Waters’ era to a more introspective and musically expansive approach.

Artistic Intentions

The artistic intentions behind this album were multi-faceted. Gilmour, along with drummer Nick Mason and a cadre of session musicians, aimed to prove that Pink Floyd could thrive creatively and commercially without Waters. The album’s production was meticulous, with Gilmour’s desire to blend high-fidelity sound with intricate, layered compositions. Interviews and album notes reveal that Gilmour sought to craft an immersive auditory experience, one that invited listeners to lose themselves in the music’s sweeping expanses and nuanced details. He envisioned A Momentary Lapse of Reason as a revitalization of the band’s identity, maintaining their progressive rock roots while exploring new lyrical and instrumental directions.

Sonic Exploration

Production Quality

The production quality of A Momentary Lapse of Reason is a testament to Pink Floyd’s commitment to sonic excellence. Overseen primarily by David Gilmour and co-producer Bob Ezrin, the album boasts a polished, high-fidelity sound that is both expansive and meticulously detailed. The production is crisp and clear, with each instrument and vocal track rendered with pristine clarity. This approach serves to immerse the listener in the album’s rich, atmospheric textures, enhancing the thematic elements of introspection and exploration.

Ezrin’s influence is particularly evident in the album’s grandiose soundscapes and layered arrangements, which mirror the epic production values of previous Pink Floyd works like The Wall. The production style complements the album’s mood, allowing the music to breathe and evolve organically, drawing the listener into its sonic world. The use of state-of-the-art studio techniques and digital recording technology, still novel in the late 1980s, gave the album a modern edge while preserving the band’s signature ethereal quality.

Musical Arrangements

The musical arrangements on A Momentary Lapse of Reason are both intricate and expansive, featuring a blend of traditional rock instrumentation and innovative sonic textures. Gilmour’s guitar work is front and center, ranging from soaring solos to delicate, ambient riffs that underscore the album’s emotive landscape. Tracks like “Learning to Fly” and “On the Turning Away” showcase his ability to craft memorable guitar lines that serve both the song and the overall atmosphere of the album.

The album also features extensive use of synthesizers and digital keyboards, adding a lush, otherworldly quality to the arrangements. Richard Wright, although not officially reinstated as a full member at the time, contributed significantly to the keyboard sections, his playing adding depth and dimension to the sonic tapestry. The rhythm section, anchored by Nick Mason’s solid drumming, provides a steady foundation, with contributions from session musicians like Tony Levin on bass, further enriching the musical texture.

Vocally, Gilmour’s performances are emotive and nuanced, his voice carrying the weight of the album’s reflective themes. Background vocals, including those of Rachel Fury, Durga McBroom, and others, are used effectively to enhance the emotional resonance of the tracks, particularly on the hauntingly beautiful “Yet Another Movie” and the stirring “Sorrow”.

Genre Elements

A Momentary Lapse of Reason touches upon several musical genres, blending elements of progressive rock, ambient, and even hints of new wave. The album retains the progressive rock foundation that Pink Floyd is renowned for, with its complex structures, thematic continuity, and extended instrumental passages. However, it also incorporates more contemporary elements reflective of the mid-1980s music scene.

The ambient influences are particularly notable in the album’s use of synthesizers and atmospheric production techniques, which create a sense of space and introspection. Tracks like “Terminal Frost” exemplify this ambient approach, offering a meditative, instrumental experience that contrasts with the more traditional rock elements found in songs like “One Slip”.

The blending of genres is seamless, with each track contributing to the album’s cohesive sound while offering its unique sonic palette. This genre fusion not only revitalized Pink Floyd’s sound but also positioned A Momentary Lapse of Reason as a forward-thinking work, bridging the gap between the band’s storied past and the evolving musical landscape of the late 1980s.

Lyrical Analysis

Themes and Messages

A Momentary Lapse of Reason delves into themes of loss, existential reflection, and the human condition. In the absence of Roger Waters, whose lyrics often focused on social and political commentary, David Gilmour and his collaborators shifted the lyrical focus to more personal and introspective realms. The album explores the passage of time, the fragility of human connections, and the quest for meaning in an often chaotic world.

One of the central themes is the journey of self-discovery and the search for identity, a motif that resonates in songs like “Learning to Fly” and “On the Turning Away.” “Learning to Fly” metaphorically addresses Gilmour’s own experiences of taking creative control of the band, as well as broader themes of breaking free from constraints and embracing new beginnings. “On the Turning Away” speaks to the societal tendency to ignore suffering and injustice, urging a return to empathy and collective responsibility.

Recurring motifs include flight and water, symbols that represent freedom, fluidity, and transformation. These motifs help to unify the album’s narrative and underscore its exploration of change and resilience. The imagery of the sea, skies, and natural elements weaves through the lyrics, creating a sense of continuity and depth.

Lyrical Depth

The lyrics on A Momentary Lapse of Reason are characterized by their poetic and evocative nature. While not as overtly narrative-driven as some of Pink Floyd’s earlier works, the album’s lyrics are rich with metaphor and imagery, inviting multiple interpretations. Gilmour’s lyrical style is more abstract compared to Waters, favoring impressionistic and symbolic language that creates a tapestry of emotions and ideas rather than telling a linear story.

For instance, in “Yet Another Movie,” the lyrics paint a picture of fragmented reality and disillusionment, using cinematic metaphors to convey the protagonist’s sense of detachment and confusion. “Sorrow,” one of the album’s standout tracks, combines vivid imagery with a brooding, introspective tone, reflecting on themes of regret and the enduring scars of past experiences.

The complexity of the lyrics lies in their ability to evoke powerful visual and emotional responses without being overly prescriptive. This open-endedness allows listeners to project their interpretations and find personal resonance within the songs.

Emotional Impact

The emotional impact of A Momentary Lapse of Reason is profound, with the lyrics contributing significantly to the album’s overall resonance. The introspective and often melancholic themes evoke a range of emotions, from the longing and nostalgia of “Sorrow” to the hopeful introspection of “Learning to Fly.”

The album’s exploration of human vulnerability and resilience creates a deep sense of empathy. Songs like “On the Turning Away” inspire contemplation and a call to action, urging listeners to acknowledge and address the suffering around them. The lyrical content, paired with the evocative musical arrangements, creates a powerful emotional journey that engages the listener on multiple levels.

In tracks like “The Dogs of War,” the lyrics delve into darker, more aggressive themes, reflecting the tensions and conflicts of the era. This contrast between the more somber, reflective songs and the intense, confrontational tracks adds to the album’s dynamic emotional range.

Cohesion and Flow

Track Progression

A Momentary Lapse of Reason demonstrates a thoughtful and deliberate approach to track progression, ensuring a smooth and engaging listening experience from start to finish. The album opens with “Signs of Life,” an atmospheric instrumental piece that sets a contemplative tone and serves as a gateway into the album’s sonic landscape. This track seamlessly transitions into “Learning to Fly,” establishing an immediate thematic and emotional connection by continuing the motif of exploration and new beginnings.

As the album progresses, each track flows naturally into the next, maintaining a cohesive narrative thread. The transition from “Learning to Fly” to the more urgent and darker tones of “The Dogs of War” is particularly effective, introducing a shift in mood while preserving the overall thematic continuity. This careful pacing allows the listener to journey through a spectrum of emotions, from introspection and nostalgia to tension and resolution.

Songs like “On the Turning Away” and “Yet Another Movie” continue this emotional arc, with the former offering a poignant call for empathy and the latter delving into themes of disillusionment. The instrumental interlude “Terminal Frost” provides a moment of reflection and respite, its serene melodies offering a counterpoint to the album’s more intense moments. The final tracks, “A New Machine (Part 1)” and “Sorrow,” bring the album to a powerful and contemplative close, with “Sorrow” providing a cathartic resolution to the journey.

Thematic Consistency

Thematic consistency is a hallmark of A Momentary Lapse of Reason. Despite the varied emotional tones and musical styles, the album maintains a unified vision that ties the tracks together. The recurring motifs of flight, water, and transformation create a cohesive narrative that is reinforced through both lyrics and instrumentation.

The album’s exploration of human vulnerability, resilience, and the passage of time is woven into each track, ensuring that the themes resonate throughout. For example, the imagery of flight in “Learning to Fly” is echoed later in the album, creating a sense of continuity and reinforcing the theme of personal and existential exploration. Similarly, the water imagery in “Yet Another Movie” and “Terminal Frost” underscores the album’s reflective and introspective nature.

Musically, the album blends elements of progressive rock, ambient, and contemporary sounds in a way that feels both innovative and true to Pink Floyd’s legacy. The use of synthesizers and digital effects, alongside Gilmour’s distinctive guitar work and emotive vocals, creates a sonic palette that is both diverse and harmonious. This blend of old and new elements contributes to the album’s thematic and stylistic coherence.

There are no jarring shifts or incongruous moments that disrupt the album’s flow. Each track is carefully crafted to complement the others, resulting in a work that feels complete and well-integrated. The album’s ability to balance thematic depth with musical variety is a testament to Pink Floyd’s artistry and Gilmour’s vision for the band’s evolution.

Standout Tracks and Moments

Highlight Key Tracks

“Learning to Fly”
One of the most iconic tracks on A Momentary Lapse of Reason, “Learning to Fly” stands out for its infectious melody and rich lyrical content. The song captures the theme of liberation and self-discovery, both personally for Gilmour and metaphorically for the band. Its driving rhythm and soaring guitar work, combined with the lush production, make it a definitive track that encapsulates the album’s spirit of renewal and exploration.

“On the Turning Away”
This track is notable for its emotional depth and social commentary. With its call to empathy and action, “On the Turning Away” addresses the apathy towards suffering and injustice. The poignant lyrics, coupled with Gilmour’s evocative vocal delivery and anthemic guitar solo, make it a powerful and memorable piece. Its slow build and eventual crescendo showcase Pink Floyd’s mastery in creating emotionally impactful music.

“Sorrow”
“Sorrow” closes the album on a deeply introspective note. The song’s brooding, atmospheric opening—marked by Gilmour’s haunting guitar riff—sets the stage for a journey through themes of regret and existential pain. The dense, layered production and lyrical complexity make “Sorrow” a standout track that epitomizes the album’s exploration of human vulnerability and resilience. Gilmour’s extended solo at the end is a highlight, demonstrating his technical prowess and emotional expressiveness.

Memorable Moments

The Opening of “Signs of Life”
The album’s opening track, “Signs of Life,” sets the mood with its ambient sounds and gentle instrumental build-up. The use of natural sounds—like water and wind—paired with synthesizers creates an immersive experience that invites listeners into the album’s reflective space. This atmospheric beginning is a perfect introduction to the album’s themes of nature and introspection.

Guitar Solo in “Learning to Fly”
The guitar solo in “Learning to Fly” is a defining moment. It captures the essence of freedom and exhilaration, mirroring the song’s lyrics about breaking free and soaring high. Gilmour’s expressive playing, marked by fluid bends and melodic phrasing, underscores his reputation as one of rock’s great guitarists.

Choral Ending of “On the Turning Away”
The final chorus of “On the Turning Away” features a powerful layering of voices, creating a choral effect that amplifies the song’s call to consciousness and compassion. This moment is both uplifting and thought-provoking, leaving a lasting impression of the song’s message.

Synth and Saxophone in “Terminal Frost”
“Terminal Frost” is an instrumental track that stands out due to its beautiful synthesis of traditional and electronic elements. The combination of synthesizers with Dick Parry’s evocative saxophone playing adds a rich, textural quality to the song. This track exemplifies the album’s innovative use of instrumentation to create mood and atmosphere.

Gilmour’s Vocal Delivery in “Sorrow”
In “Sorrow,” Gilmour’s vocal performance is particularly compelling. The raw emotion in his voice conveys a deep sense of loss and reflection, perfectly complementing the song’s lyrical themes. The way his voice resonates with the heavy, reverb-laden production creates a haunting and memorable moment that lingers long after the album ends.

Artistic Contribution and Innovation

Place in Genre/Industry

A Momentary Lapse of Reason holds a unique position within the progressive rock genre and the broader music industry of the late 1980s. At a time when popular music was heavily influenced by synth-pop, new wave, and the burgeoning alternative rock scene, Pink Floyd’s return marked a reaffirmation of their legacy and a subtle push against the prevailing trends. While the album incorporates contemporary production techniques and electronic elements, it remains firmly rooted in the band’s progressive rock heritage, characterized by expansive soundscapes, conceptual depth, and technical proficiency.

In the context of Pink Floyd’s discography, the album represents a pivotal moment of transition and renewal. It was the first album after Roger Waters’ departure, signifying the band’s resilience and ability to evolve. The album successfully bridged the gap between their classic 1970s work and a new era of music, appealing to both longtime fans and a younger audience discovering Pink Floyd for the first time.

In the broader industry, A Momentary Lapse of Reason stood out as a sophisticated and ambitious project, contrasting with the more commercially driven and mainstream-oriented releases of the time. Its success helped to reaffirm the viability of complex, artistically-driven albums in an era increasingly dominated by singles and music videos.

Innovation

One of the most innovative aspects of A Momentary Lapse of Reason is its seamless integration of cutting-edge production technology with traditional rock instrumentation. The album was recorded using advanced digital recording techniques, which were relatively new at the time, resulting in a polished and high-fidelity sound. This approach allowed for greater precision and clarity, enhancing the album’s atmospheric quality and enabling the creation of intricate, layered soundscapes.

The use of synthesizers and digital effects was particularly notable. Songs like “Learning to Fly” and “Terminal Frost” showcase how these electronic elements can be harmoniously blended with organic instruments to create a rich, immersive auditory experience. The ambient textures and sound effects, such as the natural sounds in “Signs of Life,” demonstrate a keen attention to detail and a commitment to creating a cohesive sonic environment.

Thematically, the album explores introspective and existential topics with a poetic subtlety that was somewhat rare in the rock genre at the time. While not as overtly conceptual as some of their previous works, A Momentary Lapse of Reason employs recurring motifs and symbolic imagery to weave a tapestry of themes related to loss, transformation, and self-discovery. This approach allows for a more personal and reflective listening experience, inviting multiple interpretations and deeper engagement with the music.

Another innovative element is the album’s visual presentation. The iconic cover art, designed by Storm Thorgerson, features an image of hundreds of hospital beds on a beach, evoking themes of isolation and surreal introspection. This striking visual complements the album’s sonic atmosphere and reinforces its thematic concerns, demonstrating the band’s continued commitment to integrating visual artistry with their music.

Closing Thoughts

A Momentary Lapse of Reason is a compelling testament to Pink Floyd’s ability to evolve and adapt in the face of significant internal changes. The album’s strengths lie in its meticulous production quality, innovative use of technology, and the emotional depth of its themes. David Gilmour’s leadership brings a renewed sense of purpose and direction, resulting in a collection of songs that are both introspective and expansive. The standout tracks, such as “Learning to Fly,” “On the Turning Away,” and “Sorrow,” highlight the band’s talent for blending rich, atmospheric soundscapes with poignant lyrical content.

However, the album is not without its weaknesses. Some critics and listeners have noted that the absence of Roger Waters’ distinctive lyrical voice and conceptual vision leaves a noticeable gap. While Gilmour’s more abstract and impressionistic style brings a fresh perspective, it may lack the narrative coherence and biting social commentary that characterized some of the band’s earlier works. Additionally, a few tracks, while sonically impressive, may feel somewhat disjointed or less memorable in comparison to the album’s strongest moments.

Place in Discography

Despite these minor shortcomings, A Momentary Lapse of Reason stands as a significant and successful entry in Pink Floyd’s discography. It serves as both a bridge between the band’s storied past and a beacon for its future, proving that Pink Floyd could continue to innovate and captivate audiences even without one of its key members. The album’s blend of progressive rock, ambient textures, and contemporary production techniques ensures that it remains relevant and engaging for both longtime fans and new listeners.

In terms of its impact, A Momentary Lapse of Reason revitalized Pink Floyd’s career, re-establishing them as a major force in the music industry and setting the stage for their subsequent works. Its introspective and exploratory nature resonates deeply with listeners, offering a meditative and immersive experience that encourages reflection and emotional connection.

Official Rating

We award the album with an 8/10 rating. This rating reflects the album’s impressive production values, standout tracks, and overall artistic achievement, while acknowledging the slight inconsistency in thematic cohesion and lyrical depth. A Momentary Lapse of Reason is a strong and memorable album that showcases Pink Floyd’s resilience and creativity, cementing its place as a noteworthy chapter in the band’s legendary career.