While on a hike today through the mountains where I live, I thought about this thread and decided to list a survey of the original twelve Gentle Giant albums, sorting them in descending order and giving my brief impressions. This is such great music that it deserves to keep finding new audiences, as it has done since it was first released (I would argue that there are many times more GG fans now then when the band was still together!).
With many of these records recently reissued on great remastered CDs, it’s a good time to survey the original catalog. Having said this, the casual GG fan might be better served by finding one of the two excellent compilations out there: Edge of Twilight (which is out of print and getting harder to find, but is worth seeking out for a great overview of the band’s earlier albums), and the new On Reflection, which I don’t think has yet been released as of this writing, but which promises to be a great set. But, this post is about the original albums, so here goes:
Essential – Go Out and Buy Them Now:
In a Glass House – The contrapunctal GG masterpiece – arguably the finest example of their craft. Famously never released in the US (it was deemed "too uncommercial" by the record company), this was an import-only hit for over thirty years until its 2005 re-release (in a fantastic remastering, by the way). From the jarring breaking-glass opening (turn down the headphones!), this is like nothing you have ever heard.
The Power and the Glory – The album which followed IaGH – this is the most consistent GG album, boasting sonics that sound like it was recorded yesterday. Lyrically, it’s their best – an exploration on the uses and misuses of political power that sound as fresh as today’s headlines.
Octopus – Probably the finest example of their early-period sound – this would be a fun first GG album to buy.
Next Wave of Purchases – Almost as Essential as the Ones Above
Free Hand – GG’s most successful release, it was commercial without compromising their contrapunctal sound.
Acquiring the Taste – Not at all commercial, this second GG release shows their sound maturing into the classic GG presentation.
Three Friends – Their most obvious concept album, this release tells the story of, yes, three friends. It’s GG's third album, and contains some wonderful moments.
Playing the Fool Live – One of the best live albums of the 70s, this captures GG in their live glory – it’s hard to believe what a talented, versatile band they were. A recent interview with lead singer Derek Shulman revealed that GG used sheet music – this album shows why it would have been impossible for the not to.
Third Round – Buy ‘em Later
Interview – A less successful follow up to Free Hand, Interview contains two or three of GG’s greatest songs, and sadly some filler. The beginning of the band’s decline, but still completely worth owning.
Giant for a Day – This one’s place on my list will surprise some people; many view it as GG’s worst record. I don’t mind it as long as one remembers what it is: A complete pop sellout. Worth a listen of you don’t expect it to sound anything like GG, it actually sounds more like REO Speedwagon (in their "tuna piano" era).
Gentle Giant – The first album, also unreleased in the U.S. (as far as I know). Some really solid stuff, but a blusier sound than the “main period” GG, and somewhat dated sonics.
Civilian – Their last album, showing the lack of direction the band had in its final hours. Different sound, but some catchy stuff and moments that hearken back to the good years.
For Completists Only
The Missing Piece – Some people like it, but it’s never done anything for me. One or two good songs but that's it.
Hope this helps!
