To the editors:
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First off, I really liked Bill Wyman’s Pink Floyd article [“The Four Phases of Pink Floyd,” January 15]. It made a bunch of distinctions about the band that have long been unsaid. The shit was gratifying to hear. But for a couple of objections, centering around his Syd Barrett info, which seemed kinda garbled and superficially rendered: One, you disposed of him too easily. There are three long-playing records he was intimately associated with, none of which were discussed. Two, his solo career (albums and live appearances) was permanently over by about 1973 or 4. In “the last decade or so,” the only appearances he has made are on the streets of Cambridge (and, sometimes, London), answering only to Roger Keith and taking to his heels whenever addressed as Syd. Seems the rock n roll life-style got the best of him . . .
The Madcap Laughs, released after a year’s break (at which time he was rumored to be either in Spain or in a mental institution) in 1970 picked right up from there and modified, by stripping it down. Barrett’s words are better than ever, the music dark, tranquil and tempestuous by turns. Before the record is over, Syd has broken down in front of us. The record has evolved almost beyond the album state. Later in the same year, Barrett was released, a much calmer sounding record, but not lacking by any means. Playing within a straight group setup, Barrett strives to achieve a pleasant, listenable pop record. Only occasionally does he show strain, though desolate images and themes of abandonment are threaded throughout the entire album.
PS: I understand that there may be the question of cultist/fanatic in my tone. Ignore it.
