The Final Cut - Pink Floyd Album Reviews

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The Final Cut (Requiem for a Post-War Dream) was the final Pink Floyd album to feature Roger Waters (who is the sole songwriter for this record) and the only album not to feature Richard Wright on keyboards. Not Now John was the album's lone single, The Fletcher Memorial Home appeared on their Echoes compilation while The Gunner's Dream remains a fan favorite. How does the whole album hold up?
#pinkfloyd #thefinalcut #albumreview #historyofrock #davidgilmour #rogerwaters
Pink Floyd is without a doubt one of the greatest classic rock bands of all time. They began in the 60s with Roger Waters on bass, Nick Mason on drums, Richard Wright on organ and Syd Barrett on lead guitar and vocals. Syd penned their early singles Arnold Layne and See Emily Play. This would lead to the release of their 1967 album Piper at the Gates of Dawn, featuring classics like Astronomy Domine, Bike and the epic psychedelic instrumental Interstellar Overdrive. Their live shows were equally inventive incorporating unique light shows. However due to Syd's breakdown he would leave the band, being replaced with David Gilmour on guitar. This would become Pink Floyd's classic lineup with Roger taking more of a songwriter role, including the song Set the Controls for the Heart of the Sun which would appear on their 1968 album A Saucerful of Secrets. The album was the only to feature all five band members and Syd's final composition with Floyd, Jugband Blues. Through albums like the soundtrack to More and the experimental Ummagumma, Pink Floyd was still finding their voice, focusing more on albums rather than singles, but still producing an occasional classic like Careful with that Axe Eugene. In 1970, Atom Heart Mother proved to be a success with the 23 minute instrumental and featuring Dave's song Fat Old Sun. 1971's Meddle would turn out to be an important staple for the band with the rocking opener One of these Days I'm Going to Cut You Into Little Pieces, featuring a rare spoken vocal by Nick, Roger's echoing bass line and Dave's Slide Guitar. The flip side, another 23 minute piece, Echoes, featuring Dave and Rick on vocals, is often regarded as Progressive Rock's finest moment, from the opening ping of Rick's leslie piano. They would also perform both these songs along with earlier classics Live at Pompeii. The Obscured by Clouds soundtrack appeared in 1972 with tracks like Burning Bridges and Free Four. However 1973's Dark Side of the Moon would become one of the most successful albums of all time, staying on the charts for nearly 13 years and still a best seller today. Roger's lyrics dealt with the evils of society driving one to madness, while the music was nearly one entire inter-connected piece (making it difficult to separate for a playlist or a best of / greatest hits compilation). Still standouts like Money, Time and Great Gig in the Sky are favorites among fans. Their 1975 followup Wish You Were Here, featuring the opening and closing piece Shine On You Crazy Diamond (a tribute to Syd Barrett who even showed up at the sessions), is thought to be equally great, if not greater, as Dark Side. But tensions between the band were beginning to rear their head. 1977 saw the release of Animals, notable for its famous cover. Roger became the band's main frontman and sole songwriter with Dave occasionally sharing the mic and writing credits. Tensions grew during the tour when Roger ended up spitting on a fan in Montreal and coming up with the idea for The Wall to separate himself from the audience. 1979 would see the release of The Wall, the album and later the tour and film. Another Brick in the Wall Part 2 became their best selling single and Comfortably Numb remains one of their most popular tunes. But it nearly broke up the band as Roger fired Rick for lack of output, creating a greater rift between him and Dave. Recycling unused tracks from The Wall sessions, 1983's The Final Cut was Roger's final album with Pink Floyd before he officially left, leaving Dave and Nick to reunite with Rick for 1987's Momentary Lapse of Reason, featuring the song Learning to Fly. Roger sued to break up the band, but failed to do so instead focusing on his solo career. The Gilmour led Floyd would produce 1994's The Division Bell, a return to form for many fans with Rick now sharing vocal and songwriting duties again. Songs included Take it Back, Coming Back to Life, Keep Talking and High Hopes. It wasn't until 2005's Live 8 concert when Dave, Nick and Rick reunited with Roger for a short set giving closure for many fans. Syd never performed with Pink Floyd again and died in 2006. Rick died in 2008. The album The Endless River was dedicated in his honor.

[@vinesauce]

The album finally clicked for me around ten years ago or so and I can say I mostly enjoy it. I don't really view it as a Floyd record which helps, but I agree about the song blur. Even having listened to it a ton, there's like 4 or so songs I can't recall. Shame this is how it ended for the Roger Era, and yes, Rick is sorely missed, but man when I'm in the right mood, Tigers, Gunners Dream and Final Cut really really hit. I also kinda like Not Now John, it's got a good groove. And Fletcher Memorial was definitely a weird track on the Best Of that quickly grew on me. I'm more of a Gilmour guy for sure, but once in a while I like to step into the manic Roger energy, so this album is a good fix for that. Anyway great review as always!

[@Grommet_]

lmao, fucking vinesause

[@bushranger8960]

G'day vinny, great seeing ya here! Defs agree, many of the tracks here are just dull, lacking and feel rushed.

[@dandydolphin64]

Really didn't expect Vinny to be here. Happy to see your a fellow Floyd fan

[@JTCurtisMusic]

Thank you! I can definitely understand enjoying it. Tigers, Gunner's Dreams and Final Cut are definitely the standout tunes. For whatever reason Not Now John didn't click with me, which I was honestly surprised about.

[@bushranger8960]

@@JTCurtisMusic you didn't like part the part of the album where Roger was screaming into the microphone while David Gilmour was trying to claw his way out of the studio??

[@Joltsu]

I'm in the camp that thinks The Final Cut is a hidden gem. One of my favourite Pink Floyd albums for sure.

[@CoolhandLukeSkywalkr]

Turns out Joel is a deaf guy who picks Pink Floyd albums due to the cover art.

[@bennransom4784]

Yeh top album

[@xavinaut]

Same

[@Joltsu]

@@CoolhandLukeSkywalkr wtf 😂 final cut’s album cover isn’t even very nice

[@CoolhandLukeSkywalkr]

@@Joltsu Well, the music on the record is also trash. I'm all out of ideas of why you might possibly like this shitty album.

[@StingrayMk1]

No Floyd album brings a lump to my throat and a tear to my eye more. I'm a huge fan of this album. Don't play it often because it's too emotional.

[@cornholio47]

Honestly this album is the most underrated album ever. I don’t care if people hate it or say it’s a roger waters solo album. It’s so beautiful and all a good album needs is some emotion. Roger did just that and it’s great.

[@frommetoyou1981]

Its my favourite Floyd album JT included my comment from previously in the video.....im proud of that! This album packs a serious emotional punch.

[@cornholio47]

@@frommetoyou1981 Ik the Final Cut had the most emotion I’ve heard in an album along with the colour and shape by foo fighters. I can tell roger worked so hard on it and used so much emotion and I just can’t see why it’s so hated. Glad you love it tho

[@frommetoyou1981]

@@cornholio47 i love the colour and the shape by the foos! Their best album? Certainly in the top 2 id say.... doll, my hero, new way home, february stars.....

[@cornholio47]

@@frommetoyou1981 for sure, the last 4-5 songs are just unbelievable.

[@currywinborn3129]

@@cornholio47i think it’s so hated because it’s so unapologetically itself. If you’re not down for the ride after the first 2 songs, it’s just not your thing

[@TheTipet8]

What a wonderful album. Gunner's Dream is without any doubt one of the best Floyd songs ever, top 10 for sure. That sax solo, hmm.. chef's kiss.

[@chutspe]

"No Rick means no Floyd" - My point entirely!

[@COLONELCA13]

I heard Two Suns in the Sunset at a Waters concert recently. I was so happy when he played it because I think it's a really powerful song. The lyrics paint the whole picture perfectly imo.

[@frommetoyou1981]

If you havent already seek out the lockdown version that was done together/alone......beautiful......

[@commonsense9176]

@@frommetoyou1981 definitely

[@sirllamaiii9708]

Me too, in Milwaukee. Was definitely good, and the video for it was great too.

[@patricktilton5377]

The supposedly 'upbeat' feeling of this End-of-the-World song is reminiscent of how "Vera Lynn" (from THE WALL) was about her lyric "We'll meet again, don't know where, don't know when, but we will meet again some sunny day..." -- which was the music Kubrick used in the finale of his dark comedy "DR. STRANGELOVE" depicting a world-ending nuclear war. Roger knew what he was doing.

[@TyCody28]

Couldn’t agree more. That song was the perfect way to end the show!

[@mozart9991]

The Final Cut is a masterpiece that is every bit as good as Meddle, Dark Side of the Moon, Wish You Were Here, Animals and The Wall. It is Pink Floyd with Rick Wright's keyboards replaced by piano, strings and orchestra and it is beautiful. 'The Gunner's Dream' is one of Roger's greatest compositions, bar none, and the rest of the album is very good, with many highlights. I do not at all understand the hate this album gets from Floyd fans. A fitting 'Requiem for the Post War Dream' and sadly such was necessary. Cheers.

[@SecretTreeFortMusic]

David Gilmour is the main reason I listen to Pink Floyd. When it comes to Roger vs David, David is always the star for me. It’s because of people like me is why Roger acts the way he does towards David.

[@nectarinedreams7208]

I think if you like standard 70s rock where the guitar is the key element (what some might call dad rock), you'll be a Gilmour guy. If you like progressive music, strong lyrics and songwriting, you'll be a Waters guy.

[@vladimirkarphotography]

You are 100 %.. All the people enjoying guitars stands for Gilmour, the others for Rog.. Rog is such a powerful songwriter.

[@marthaworc7873]

I was told for decades that The Final Cut was an awful album, so I never got it. I finally heard The Final Cut 20 years later, and I liked it.

[@Craigevansagain]

You shouldn't have let the naysayers put you off buying this beautiful record!

[@marthaworc7873]

@@Craigevansagain True, but there were a lot on naysayers in a lot of different places.

[@loveshankme]

Your comment on "No Rick Wright = No Pink Floyd" is how I've felt for a long while after diving through their discography. It's why I've hailed Comfortably Numb as being "the last, true Pink Floyd classic" since it still has the co-operative band element with all 4 members. As for the Final Cut, it really is just a melange of songs that could be off Side 2 of The Wall. The funniest thing that stands out to me is my friend comparing the cover to a UV map for a 3D modeling program like Blender. Can't wait for the AMLOR review. Love your content! ❤️

[@nectarinedreams7208]

Well, Rick Wright was on The Division Bell and that's more U2 than Pink Floyd.

[@daemonspudguy]

Run Like Hell was the last song to be recorded with the traditional lineup of Roger Waters on bass and vocals, David Gilmour on guitar, Nick Mason on Drums, and Rick Wright on keyboards.

[@BrendanJSmith]

What about Run Like Hell?

[@skoosh484]

Incredible album… just because the whole band wasn’t invested doesn’t mean the songs were not amazing . I love it…

[@charlesmountney8062]

Hi JT. Seems I can't respond to you on the above thread so apologies to the thread I'm using but I do agree, it is an incredible album. First of all I love American Idiot. I play it very loud in the car. I could never relate to the album the way you do though I do agree about the fiasco that Britain was involved in as well at the time. It is an interesting discussion and briefly returning to Beethoven, can we really experience the excitement of the first experience, the anticipation, the deliverance? I'll check out your album if I can find it. If you have a link that would be great. Thanks for taking the time to respond, JT. You make interesting points which I shall mull over. Finally, I don't really rate "Sir" David Gilmour's opinions highly. But that would be a discussion for another day. Best wishes, C.

[@JTCurtisMusic]

@@charlesmountney8062 I don't know why you can't respond in the above conversation - probably more KZbin shenanigans. Your response and open mind is appreciated, keep up the discussion.

[@JackieDaytonasBar]

Your Possible Pasts, When the tigers broke free, Not now John, The final Cut, Two suns in the sunset all incredible songs for me.

[@frommetoyou1981]

Well said. Its amazing.

[@bradley9848]

It’s ironic you’ve done this video at this time. I’ve been obsessed with this album, I love it might be in my top 3

[@loveshankme]

Coming back to this review to change how I feel about this album: It's grown on me a LOT. When it comes to Roger's almost "lunatic energy", this album really does deliver. I definitely don't think this is better than any of the big four, but this album does have its place and I appreciate that.

[@BrendanJSmith]

But do you think it's better than Meddle?

[@loveshankme]

@BrendanJSmith lmao no. I've rolled it around in my head, and I think this is probably my 9th favourite album, being beaten out by every single album from the 70s and the Division Bell. I definitely like it but boy howdy there are some problems.

[@blodgettshouseofinsanity]

One of my all-time favorite albums! My second favorite Pink Floyd album. If you consider it a Roger Waters album it’s my favorite of his. Amused to death is very close though

[@MrAitraining]

Roger wrote most of the great Pink Floyd albums anyway so the final cut is less solo than people think.

[@patricksnavely5850]

I agree with Gilmour, if the tracks weren't good enough for The Wall why are they good enough for this album. These are good b-sides. This is just a Roger Waters album. You could tell by the treatment of the members of Pink Floyd, why the making of this album was a final straw. I'm not a Roger Waters dick rider. This is not a Pink Floyd album. And someone saying it's one of their best has lost their ever loving minds.

[@MIB_63]

I couldn't agree more with your review.

[@mhoppy6639]

The “black and white” version of the gunners dream featuring the vocal talents of Lucius really demonstrated the quality and emotion of the song. I love it. And his b&w version of the bravery of being out of range is also stupendous.

[@Kosh131]

I was going to make a full-throated defense of Final Cut, but it looks like many other people beat me to it. My late father was a veteran of WWII (He passed a few years before it came out), and I thought this album captured that generation's feelings and what they sacrificed so the rest of us can live fat, dumb, and happy. Two Suns in the Sunset reflected the feeling of a generation (mine) that grew up believing nuclear war could end it all at any time. The criticism of the Falkland War (probably the stupidest war of the 20th century) was spot on. Now, is it a far cry from the hippy tone of the Syd Barrett era or the melodies of Dark Side? Sure. But it is still very much its own thing. And frankly, I am one of these purists who think that Pink Floyd stopped being Pink Floyd when Roger left The next three cash-grabs (I hesitate to call them albums) are just vapid and forgettable.

[@JTCurtisMusic]

I think had they stuck to one theme, it would have worked better. When Roger is focusing on the WWII veterans' plight, "The Gunner's Dream" it works well lyrically. But then the title track, while it's a decent tune, doesn't really seem to connect to that theme. And the Falklands War criticism seems almost shoehorned in because so much of this material was written for The Wall, long before the Falklands happened. Again some good ideas here, I just think they didn't come together like some of their previous work, which have been affected by the band unity breaking down. And like I said, musically it's just not memorable at all for me. Yes I am one of those guys who loves The Division Bell. Best album lyrically? Maybe not. Musically? Absolutely. I'll take the non-verbal feelings of isolation on Marooned anyday over any song from The Final Cut. Of course, this is all one man's opinion ;)

[@samtaybi6029]

The Final Cut was the first CD I bought back in 1984. I had it on vinyl but needed it on CD too I guess.... I still consider this record to be one of my all time favorite musical experiences. Gotta get over the fact that it's not a full blown Floyd record but the melodic drama is almost unmatched by any PF record. The vulnerability of Waters' words/singing seeps right into the soul. But it is more Floyd than any record "Floyd" has done since. Anyway, that's what the Final Cut did and still does for me. Right on.

[@flippy7035]

Here’s an odd anecdote: my dad is an avid fan of Glimour, especially over Waters and yet he told me this was his favorite Pink Floyd album. Not much more to add, just thought this was an interesting take. Personally, I like this album, even though it’s not their most memorable. I’m also a fan of AMLOR even if the production didn’t age the best… I think it has it’s charm. I’m curious about your thoughts on it.

[@MisterTMH]

AMLOR is a stinker !.

[@MrLakelady]

I think this is a very beautiful album. This album defines my youth and memories and the dynamic on this album is maybe the most dynamic Pink Floyd ever did. And the guitar solos on this album is the finest I ever heard from Gilmour. And this album got tons of passion. I have of course all PF albums on vinyl and cd, but not the endless river, only on cd...that is the most boring they ever did, from my point of view. Outtakes from Division Bell. Anyway I really love those videos from you, even if I'm not agree all the time. Thank you for great reviews.

[@MaikKellerhals]

Unpopular opinion: This is my second favourite after The Wall. I love it. (Dark Side is no. 3) The Gunners Dream is my favouriite PF song.

[@nectarinedreams7208]

I'll take The Final Cut over Momentary Lapse and The Division Bell any day. I don't care how many spacey sounds and ambient sections they have - The Final Cut has much better songwriting and at least lyrically and conceptually evokes the Pink Floyd spirit.

[@MisterTMH]

Yes, 100 % right!

[@An_actual_walrus]

Spitting straight facts. Especially momentary lapse of reason which is in my opinion the worst Floyd album. David’s leadership of the band always felt hollow and meaningless. Don’t get me wrong, both David led albums have some good songs but the lyrics don’t resonate for the most part and the music seems to just be trying to ape Dark Side. It’s very inauthentic. On the turning away and high hopes are some exceptions to that rule.

[@aggieuber6571]

@@An_actual_walrusdawg what

[@vladimirkarphotography]

David is really a weak songwriter ! And that is why i prefer much Roger's work..

[@Dhips.]

I still love it. One can argue this is a Waters solo album, and I can't say much to dismiss that, but I still love it.

[@vernfreshwater7492]

I loved it in 83 and still do.❤

[@Sr_Alga]

Your physical copy is the 2004 version? I remembered that "When the Tigers Broke Free" was added for the first time in the album on that version, and i always find it kinda out of place because i love the sudden transition between "One of the Fews" and "The Hero's Return". Even if this album is one of my least favorites PF album, i have certain attachement to The Final Cut because was one of my first albums on physical (a gift from my dad) and i love songs like "Fletcher...". "The Final Cut" and "The Gunner's Dream". Great video, greetings from Chile! o/

[@JTCurtisMusic]

You're right it does feel oddly out of place in the running order. My guess was they added "When the Tigers Broke Free" to add more single material to the album to boost sales.

[@abueloraton]

I find The Final Cut to be more of a reflection of my life afflictions than any other of their albums. The Final Cut has been one of the albums that make me cry every single time I listen to it and I always recommend it to others. It is one of my favorite albums by Pink Floyd and I don't find any post-Waters production worth musically or content-wise, except for maybe a couple of songs from a couple of albums. I have spent entire months dwelling in The Final Cut. I find it has one of the most dramatic abrupt nuances in the entire Pink Floyd catalog. And it requires tremendous sensitivity and tremendous fortitude to listen to it. No other album requires this type of self-check and mental preparation from the listener. David Gilmour does an amazing job where he contributes in it and I love the sax player's contribution as well. The lyrics are superb, touching, painful, deep. They tear the soul like no other album does.

[@djkaka020772]

When I first listened to the Final Cut almost 30 years ago I thought that it was a poor continuation of The Wall. Now, I find many of the songs more relatable such as the Gunner's Dream and Behind Paranoid Eyes. Go to a Happy Hour on a Friday evening and look at many people between 40-60 who are there. Think of that song and it will really hit you.

[@mercurytrax2866]

Always loved the pink Floyd post-war motif. Super excited to see this

[@antalantal2366]

I own all PF albums, from Pipers to the endless river and the gunner's dream is one of "their" (his) best songs

[@MisterTMH]

The Endless River ( of Mogadon )is an openly creatively bankrupt cash grab . It is painfully boring!

[@daemonspudguy]

A Floyd review without Young Frankenstein? That's surprising.

[@JTCurtisMusic]

Yeah I guess the angry mob weren’t as passionate about this album 😂

[@tylerhackner9731]

Underrated album!

[@supermariostupidshow]

don’t watch this reveiw then

[@husq48]

🤣

[@JTCurtisMusic]

@Bryan I believe I started off the review by showcasing opinions that differ from mine ;)

[@craftiestdude]

This is an amazing album. Very emotional and poignant. It gets better with time .

[@abueloraton]

The most poignant album of Pink Floyd. It tears the soul apart!!!

[@marcoserranopalacios9845]

This was one of the best Pink Floyd’s album… even if it’s not with all members. The concept, music arrangements and solos are amazing

[@abueloraton]

The most demanding album, full of pain and beauty

[@cdolan13]

Yes, this is a Roger Waters album, completely. I agree with you especially when you said 'no Richard (Wright), no Pink Floyd'. Excellently said.

[@tatedavis2016]

For me, The Final Cut is a Roger Waters solo album under the Floyd name, and a great one at that. I also like The Pros And Cons of Hitch Hiking, as I think it has a great flow to it. The rest of his solo catalogue is okay, but kind of a snoozefest. However, Not Now John, Two Suns In The Sunset, and the title track are all classics. For me, this is a quick rundown on how I view the albums where Waters really took the lead: Animals: Waters bitching and moaning about capitalism, and the result is tremendous. The Wall: Waters bitching and moaning about audiences at stadium shows, and the result is overblown. The Final Cut: Waters bitching and moaning about the Falklands War, and the result is very good. Love this series and keep up the good work!

[@JTCurtisMusic]

It's weird, for as much as Roger says the Falklands War was the jumping point for this album, it doesn't really come into play as much as you'd think. It's probably because many of the songs were written before the conflict came into play.

[@IvanToshkov]

I remember listening it for the first time. I had recently became a fan of the band with The Wall and Wish You Were Here and I wanted to hear more. My cousin, who first introduced me to Pink Floyd, had only this album available at the time. I listened it and I was quite disappointed. Fast forward one year, and a friend of mine gifted me all the Pink Floyd lyrics printed on a large stack of "endless" paper. I loved to read the lyrics of the albums that I've listened to and try to improve my English. At last I decided to give The Final Cut a shot. I was really surprised when I started reading the first verse and the music just started playing in my head! Remember, this was from a single listen one year prior! That changed my feeling about this album and I really like it. But I can see how it's not musically on the same level as the others. It's more like a poetry reading than singing. Oh, and one more thing: you know this feeling, when a some stupid pop-song enters your head and you just can't stop hearing it? Well, I don't know why, but just starting reciting "The Post War Dream" helps me with this. I'd love to hear if it does work on others ;)

[@alanpeterson4939]

I have listened to this hundreds of times. It is obviously a lyrics driven album. I will always love this album. The Wall and Darkside may be better, but The Final Cut, Gunner’s Dream, and Tigers are amazing (lyrically).

[@whointheside]

You need a heart, not only ears, to appreciate this album...

[@El_Naito]

My favorite Album

[@BrendanJSmith]

Oh boy, I can't wait for the next video where we talk about lawsuits for a LOOOOOONG time!

[@JTCurtisMusic]

Hence why it’ll be it’s own video

[@williamlangan5902]

I remember how excited I was when it came out. Most of it I liked. It just hasn't aged well. The Gunner's Dream still brings tears to my eyes. That's my favorite track. "If you're a Roger Waters purist, this record is for you." I couldn't have said it better myself. And by the way, I like your joke: "Not now, John, we gotta get on with this review!" When played on the radio, the song sings "Stuff all that!" Two Suns is a nice way to end this album. If you were unimpressed or bored, wait until you get to The Pros And Cons Of Hitchhiking!

[@PinkFloydCollectors]

It’s a late at night, with headphones album.. personally love it

[@commonsense9176]

To me whos friend was killed in the Falklands and own life wrecked by Thacher I think its a superb album

[@hank35682]

Great analysis it’s not my favorite Floyd album buts it’s one that I really appreciate and has stuck with me can’t wait to see a momentary lapse of reason video 👍

[@195511SM]

I've always avoided this album. I heard that Roger released it after he left the band & that the songs were rejects from 'The Wall'. In fact, I discovered I owned it, after buying some box-set of all the Pink Floyd albums about 10 years ago. Reluctantly I gave it a listen...and I only kind of liked one song....something Gilmour played that had the word 'John' in the title.

[@paulorafaellamim8543]

I love this album.

[@jlr8423]

Personally, the gunners dream and the self titled track carry this album. I personally love those songs and they make the album better than momentary lapse of reason, I cant stand MLOR and it's production quality. I'm hoping you rip that album in to shreds

[@hitfan2000]

One might disagree with the politics, but I think the music on this album is quite emotional and moving. But yea--this is not the Pink Floyd of the 1970s era and it is effectively a Roger Waters solo album. I think it's interesting that the teacher/villain from the The Wall is presented as a more sympathetic character in the music videos.

[@TheGravygun]

I saw the pros and cons of hitchhiking tour at Radio City Music Hall and Brendan Byrne Arena when I was a teenager. Fantastic

[@thebeatlesandoasis05]

This is my second favourite Pink Floyd album. However I see why people dislike it

[@deantaylor1512]

Understandable…

[@frommetoyou1981]

Its my favourite Floyd album. However, i can see why people dislike it!!

[@thatsentertainment5602]

The Final Cut is an awesome album and is an extension of the Wall album in terms of its anti-war themes and autobiographical with the loss of Roger's father Eric from World War 2. In his 1983 Rolling Stone review of the album, Kurt Loder called it a "Masterpiece" and rated it 5/5. If anyone considers The Final Cut a commercial failure, it did sell 2 million copies in the USA alone (RIAA) which is more then what Pink Floyd's The Endless River sold.

[@vslabs-za]

I discovered Pink Floyd back in '81. And The Final Cut was personal. The Wall, brilliant as it was/is, not. But then my experiences differ when it comes to war (served), religion (atheist), and politics (far left). The Final Cut is an emotional experience. As is Amused To Death. Do not expect many to truly grok the music and lyrics. There's a kid who had a big hallucination Making love to girls in magazines He wonders if you're sleeping with your new found faith Could anybody love him Or is it just a crazy dream?

[@fufufoofoo]

Hey curtis ! Thanks a lot ! Love your Reviews !

[@Leo-ci9kc]

Loved this upon release. Dont like it as much now but love the last 3 songs on the album

[@vladimirkarphotography]

As, i like Roger s work, i really love this album. So powerful. We feel the anger and passion of Roger…

[@blackscorpion-h8i]

I think the Final Cut is pretty decent , highlights for me include the title track , The Gunners Dream , The Fletcher Memorial Home & Not Now John. It's a little dark and depressing but I listen to it fairly often.

[@northernbrother1258]

If classic Pink Floyd is Waters/Gilmour then neither The Final Cut nor post Waters albums are Pink Floyd. They're better together...which is probably why they can't get along.

[@iamleeham]

its one of my favorites, it sounds like an extended wall. i love the drop of ‘the post war dream’ probably top 3 for me

[@nachteinfallt8915]

AND HOLD ONNN TO THE DREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEAM

[@phillwilkinson8319]

I enjoy it, it is definitely a Roger solo album mixed with the wall out takes.. I do enjoy waters solo stuff though.

[@oldccd6349]

Will be good to see what you think of this one

[@scottyvalero3691]

I really like this album. It’s quite simple musically and is different from other Floyd albums cuz Rick wasn’t there, but the lyrics and message is a very powerful one. Roger Waters, whether you like his voice or not, undoubtedly is giving some of the most heartfelt performances on this album. You don’t need to have a heavy sounding song in order for it to be heavy. This album truly is about the message, not necessarily the melody or the sound.

[@AvanRoyOfficial]

Very amazing album 10/10

[@unreal1066]

Fair enough, I love this album and feel Roger gives pink Floyd bite and something to say. It does seem to be a solo record than a band album. I came to it through the echoes best of with the fletcher memorial home song.

[@MedardKrzisnik]

To me, this record is a courageous statement by Roger Waters, still in the name of Pink Floyd. It is a mature album that protests against the futility of war carried out by politicians with only their personal agenda in sight. In the name of that goal, they are prepared to sacrifice the lives of innocent soldiers who are ordinary people and want to live a decent life. The post-war dream, as Roger Waters explains in his first and also in the other songs on this album, is a vision of life in a more socially just society in which all people will look after one another (a dream, also expressed by the Christians, not just by the Socialists), was crushed by the single politician (Maggie, Margaret Thatcher), with war that she orchestrated for her victory in the public elections, a scenario that also Mr. Reagan, Bush Old and Jr., Mr. Clinton, Tony Blair pursued. The Final Cut is a powerful and badly needed commentary on this unacceptable human behaviour. Roger just wanted to express his feelings about this situation. Thanks to him, we can listen and be inspired by the work that he had done with Gilmour and Mason (sadly, yes, he forced Wright to resign during the making of The Wall). Not many British bands at that time would express their distaste for the policy Miss Thatcher was carrying out, except for the British punk band The Crass, who were also conscious enough to protest this situation. Excellent review, Mr.JTCurtisMusic

[@IamConnorMacLeod]

Please consider doing a review of both versions of Momentary Lapse of Reason, that is the original 1987 and the recent 2019 remixed and updated version.

[@richardb8503]

Possibly the best PF album…with a very clear concept, excellent songs, fantastic lyrics and great playing…what came next was woeful.

[@MisterTMH]

Yes, They should have all quit using the Brand name after that .

[@MIB_63]

A fair to good Waters solo album all but in name. Musically Pink Floyd was way more than Waters. Musically I prefer AMLOR.

[@schh5462]

No

[@MaxSoup8]

The final cut is a 6.5/10 for me, it has some cool songs, especially the title track, but it has no climax on the album, most songs looks the same, it's repetitive. I would put in the 10° rank on Pink Floyd discography. Remember, that's MY opnion.

[@keysersoze3977]

The gunners dream is still one of my favorite Floyd songs..

[@byron_lion_zion]

I love Amused to Death

[@joeguerra8435]

I bought The Final Cut, about 40 years ago, mostly out of sentiment because at the time I heard it would be the last Pink Floyd album. I also have The Wall and Dark Side of the Moon albums. I thankfully still have the Final Cut LP, most likely still in near mint condition, but have not played it in over 40 years. I don’t recall after listening to it that it was a bad PF album. Then again, very few things will ever compare to the mega-giants DSOTM or The Wall that came immediately before The Final Cut.

[@Voyager.2]

The Final Cut is a masterpiece, one of the best PF albums.

[@auzzieamerican]

Paranoid Eyes deserves more discussion. Great track.

[@tomjewell7759]

Roger fans putting on their body armor...

[@JTCurtisMusic]

I’ll be sitting in a bunker here behind my wall

[@dmcgullwing5148]

@@JTCurtisMusic all they need to do is follow the worms

[@MaxSoup8]

​@@dmcgullwing5148no matter how they try

[@tomjewell7759]

😄😄😄 make sure its kevlar jt

[@zeezrawesome132]

I love this album. It has a lot of emotion. One great thing about Pink Floyd is their wide variety of albums. It makes it possible to match any of their music to your current mood. I love roger waters and I love Pink Floyd and I love this album.

[@scottspeer]

I always considered this to be the first Roger solo album. Sadly though, it's not even in his top 3 solo projects (IMHO, the best is Radio KAOS) and rarely gets listened to. I do like 2 suns in the sunset though.

[@mimkyodar]

Hell yeah Radio KAOS

[@ratedr7845]

Ah Radio K.A.O.S, great idea and had potential, but man did they fumbled it

[@mimkyodar]

@@ratedr7845 Sunset Strip freaking SLAPS

[@daemonspudguy]

Amused To Death is my favorite "actual" Roger Waters solo album, with second being Radio KAOS, if nothing else than for Jim Ladd's great narration, especially the fish rant.

[@jackdough8164]

It’s not my favorite but I definitely appreciate it and listen to it as much as anything else in my massive collection. Not now John, your possible pasts and the fletcher memorial home are my fave off it

[@andrewwebb7584]

I wasn't expecting to see me in this review!

[@JTCurtisMusic]

Having a picture of The Doctor might have influenced my decision making XD

[@CoolhandLukeSkywalkr]

We have reached the bottom of the Pink Floyd barrel.

[@nectarinedreams7208]

Whatever you say, Gilmour fanboy. Go bore yourself to death with The Endless River.

[@fran98832]

Welp, I gotta admit I love the album for it's lyrical content, it helps me painting a story in my imagination, specially the second side. Great video, JT, such a good review !! P.S. A fun story, apparently when the album was being mixed at Mayfair studios, both Dave and Rog spent time playing arcades like Donkey Kong and such, so yeah, they're gamers

[@JTCurtisMusic]

I'm imagining while playing, Dave is imagining Donkey Kong to be Rog and vise versa XD

[@frommetoyou1981]

Especially side 2. A perfect side of music. Its so powerful.

[@saulcaldwell]

My most listened to Floyd album nowadays. I love all the others, but tend to listen to this one the most.

[@CoolhandLukeSkywalkr]

The Final Cut had a great guitar solo from David Gilmour, but besides that, it sucks.

[@splitzerx570]

I absolutely love both Roger Waters and David Gilmour but anyone who say that Waters or Gilmour IS Pink Floyd is full of shit. It’s the combination of each member and their contributions. And honestly I think that if I were to be nail it down to one person who defines the Pink Floyd sound it is in fact Richard Wright (still tho all of them are Pink Floyd)

[@cgerman]

For years I delayed listening to the Final Cut because of reviews like this saying that it is not very good and it pretty much sucks etc. So one day I decided to give it a listen with literally zero expectations but I was very pleasantly surprised. The album is not bad. It doesn't contain any mega hits like the previous albums, granted, but there are many killer melodies and lyrics to explore. It is a very personal and one could say a little difficult album but not bad by any means. All the songs were written by Waters because David hadn't written any material. Whenever Roger asked him have you got anything he replied no. So it is no wonder that all the tracks say Roger Waters. To everybody out there, don't pay attention to all the negativity towards this album and give it a listen objectively. But a warning, if you are expecting another Comfortably Numb you will be disappointed.

[@kerrydougherty166]

In 1981 I created a musical mystery by simply mailing 4 copies of my poster Athena to Yoko Ono along with a request that Paul McCartney, Pink Floyd, and The WHO sing songs about my poster. Ono did what I asked of her and relayed my request to those artists. Instantly turning me into an impresario. This is Pink Floyd's contribution to my musical mystery. Now it is up to the public to solve the following question. Did Yoko Ono grant a fan’s wishes, to have Paul McCartney, Pink Floyd, and The Who sing songs about his poster, Athena? The Final Cut Was John Lennon Killed by a Manchurian Candidate? The three-bullet theory. First gun shot. A. Song - “Your Possible Pasts” B. At the 0:28 mark during the lyrics of - A warning to anyone still in command. Of their possible future, to take care. C. Shot fired during the word “command.” In the background a voice shouts, “Take Cover.” a. Who are they trying to warn? Second gun shot. A. Song - “Your Possible Pasts” B. At the 2:02 mark during the lyrics of - Stepping up boldly one put out his hand. C. Shot fired during the word “hand.’ Followed by the lyrics - He said, "I was just a child then, now I'm only a man." a. Is this “man” Waters is singing about the same person they are trying to warn in the earlier lyrics? D. Was this song part of a missing tape recording of the artist known as “The Man?” The night he was desperately seeking to get back together with Susan. Clue - a quieter gunshot is heard during the song “A Gunners Dream.” Followed by someone yelling out in the background. Someone had somebody shot. Is this song about John Lennon’s assassination? Third gun shot. A. Song - “The Final Cut” B. At the 1:14 mark during the lyrics of - And if I’m in I’ll tell you. C. Shot fired during the word “you.” Obviously, the person (man) would be defending himself. The mystery behind the ending of this song is very easy. The artist known as The Man that Waters is singing about maybe attempting to commit suicide. Because no one believes that The Who are singing the song “Athena” about his poster Athena. But before he can commit suicide the life saving call comes in. Telling him that “Athena” is about the bomb on his poster Athena. That was written into the song in the following manner. I held the blade in trembling hands Prepared to make it but - just then the phone rang I never had the nerve to make the final cut Hello? Listen, I think I've got it." "Okay, listen, it's a-Bomb ha ha ha ha! Immediately followed by “Not Now John” a song written about the assassination of John Lennon. And what Ronald Reagan might say (fuck it all that) we gotta get on with the show. Once Reagan realizes he has no other choice but to retaliate and push the red button. Because the USSR has already launched their nuclear arsenal against the USA. You will hear my name being yelled out in the background of the song at the 3:20 mark. It goes like this - Kerry… John it’s me Kerry. Then near the end of the song you will hear John Lennon’s name being yelled out. Followed by - hang on, hang on, hang on. Those words were what I was thinking, when I heard that Lennon had been shot, and was being rushed to the hospital. Both “Not Now John” and “Two Suns in the Sunset” were written about my poster Athena. The poster has a dedication I wrote for Lennon printed on it. I was told to look at my poster as if John Lennon was killed because they didn’t want him around to stop their next war. Because of the role Lennon had in being able to help put an end to the Vietnam War. That is how the song “Not Now John” came into being. “Two Suns in the Sunset” describes what it could be like if you were to see an atomic bomb explosion on your way home from work one day. My poster Athena has the photo of the atomic explosion over Nagasaki on it. This is not a coincidence.

[@hippomancy]

this is the album where Roger's voice works best. I actually liked it more than the Wall when it was released. but it is not Pink Floyd. (I see Momentary Lapse as a Gilmour album, but Division Bell is true Floyd). I was a teen writing letters for Amnesty Int'l so this album works for me. perhaps it's like reading Catcher in the Rye- never read it when younger- have not been able to get through it... everyone who's a fan were teens when they experienced it. by your ranking I got Goldfish... one version of the story behind "Not Now John" - a nod to the death of John Lennon. he got a phone message from Lennon which he never returned because he was busy...

[@culloden23]

Not Now John started me on my PF journey in 1988.

[@madahad9]

I didn't discover Pink Floyd until the release of The Wall in 1979. It was a phenomenon and I envy anyone who had the opportunity to see it performed live. I immediately began buying their earlier albums to catch up and get a better sense of their musical history. When The Final Cut was released in 1983 I was in the record store the day when the shipment of albums arrived and got the very first one out of the box and hurried home to listen to it. After the larger than life spectacle of The Wall this was a very different tone. Even in comparison to those earlier albums this did not feel like a Pink Floyd album. Needless to say I didn't like it very much , apart from a few songs, such as Not Now John. I tried to catch the videos whenever they played on MTV but that was usually very late at night and they did help mentally conceptualize the theme of the album a little more. I grew to like its more sombre and melancholic tone the more I listened to it. I can understand why it is regarded as more a Roger Waters solo album than a Pink Floyd project as Dave and Nick are given cameo appearances and replaced by the soundscape design and Roger's droning vocals. It's not their worst. I'd be hard pressed to consider any of their albums as completely worthless and all have some great songs, even if they are very uneven and oftentimes hastily recorded in some cases. I seldom sit and listen to The Final Cut from beginning to end. Roger Waters is rocks great pessimist and I've outgrown it over the decades.

[@pinkraven4402]

I see... Personally I know a lot of albums that are beloved or critically acclaimed but I just don't feel them personally, something doesn't click in my head. I have a lot of respect for "Loveless" by MBV but I'm just unable to really connect the dots and properly appreciate it. It grew on my a lot tho and maybe one of these days it will really click. Most of my favourite albums were not instant clicks, Coldplay's "Parachutes", John Coltrane's "Ascension", Radiohead's "Kid A" required a lot of time for me. And I think that "The Final Cut" may be similarly hard to appreciate. It's not perfect by any means but I think it genuinely contains some of PF's best material but it may be hard to appreciate due to it's repetitive, low-key, Rogerwaterish nature. Like, I think that the explosive moments in these songs are amazing, the "Post War Dream" climax is very energetic, "Your Possible Pasts" with that "closer" hook to me is just beautiful, same goes for "The Fletcher Memorial Home", "The Gunner's Dream". Like, sure, David doesn't get that much time on this LP but in these few solos he pours his soul man! It doesn't matter whether he felt engaged during the recording or not, it's like his guitar speaks for itself and just autopilots some of the most beautiful, heart-wrenching performances of his career. The absolute pinnacle for me is the title track. Oh sweet baby Jesus, the title track... The fact that you don't appreciate this track is a bit strange to me, no offence! But just, man... The production, the chord progressions, the subtle ethereal backing vocals, the flow, the orchestration, Roger's actually very intimate, dynamic and emotional performance, the solo, the damn solo which could honestly be David's best, it's jist magical to me and I think it's one of the most beautiful pieces of music I have ever heard, not only from Floyd but in general. If anything, I would highly suggest trying to make friends with this one song, I think it's immensely gratifying, just this one song. I can see why this LP could be overwhelming but to me it's just a vibe, you know? Instead of boring, to me the low-key, kinda repetitive instrumentation has a somewhat meditative quality. This album has a lot of flaws but I just like the good parts so much and I vibe with it as a hole, such that I really love it at the end of the day. It's a shame that Roger is an egotistical dickhead and Rick is not there but the art itself just works imo, and despite the circumstances it was born in, I really do still get the Floyd's spirit there albeit dimmed out, which I don't really get from albums without Roger. I really think this is the most overhated and underrated PF's albums but it's not for everyone and nobody should force themselves to like it if it just fundamentally doesn't work for them. Except the title track, I will die on a hill defending this song

[@j.goggels9115]

"Don't let that door hit you in the A" would have made for a better title. I cut off Roger Water's debut album (Music from the Body I mixed into Atom Heart Mother) from my Pink Floyd re-edition and just kept 4 tracks I added into my Collection of Great Dance Songs together with other soli material by Richard Wright, David Gilmour, Nick Mason and Syd Barrett. 1. Tigers 2. Against the Odds 3. Siam 4. Teacher Teacher 5. So Far Away 6. Fletcher 7. Opal 8. Voices 9. Not Now John 10. Wet Dream instru

[@schuszter4280]

I give this album a spotted fish Standouts Your Possible Pasts Fletcher Memorial Home Gunner’s Dream Not Now John When The Tigers Broke Free

[@mimkyodar]

I always felt like The Final Cut (the song) was Pink immediately after The Trial. It's a small flicker of hope and someone finally reaching out and him reaching back.

[@ratedr7845]

Actually, it was made for The Wall, but you know, they had to trim the fat off that album and he wants to rework it

[@stevemcnary7963]

I hated this album when it came out and I hate it now. I like the songs The Final Cut and Not Now John and nothing else.

[@kallteknik]

I love this album! Sorry to heard it put down like this.

[@Craigevansagain]

In my honest opinion I consider The Final Cut one of the best Pink Floyd albums and the last album from the long 1966-1983 golden era of Pink Floyd. Also, my honest opinion the following are the Magnificent Seven Pink Floyd albums:- 1) Wish You Were Here 2) Dark Side Of The Moon 3) Meddle 4) The Final Cut 5) Animals 6) The Wall 7) Obscured By Clouds All of these albums through both emotional music and lyrics are ultimately teachings about the best aspects of humanity; peace, friendship, well-being, love and compassion but they also warn about the various terrible things that can destroy them; tyranny, cruelty, capitalism, fascism, The Man, The System, The Machine, hatred, prejudice, indifference, social ostracism, bad teachers, hostile societies, social division and inequalities, modernity, bigotry, power, war and greed. Fundamentally all of the best Pink Floyd albums have this escapism vibe and as the great genius Roger Waters himself once put it in a discussion about Wish You Were Here, they are also about "how fucking miserable it (fucked-up modern human society, injustice and tragedy) all is". I also consider all of the pre-Meddle Pink Floyd albums honorable Pink Floyd classics thanks to their pastoral psychedelic and whimsical music and/or lyrics and even far-out experimentation. As awesome as "The Magnificent Seven Pink Floyd" albums however, they still owe a lot to The Piper At The Gates Of Dawn, A Saucerful Of Secrets, More, Ummagumma, the rare Zabriskie Point and Atom Heart Mother. I love all of the 1966-1983 golden era Pink Floyd albums. However I believe the true Pink Floyd magic is gone after Roger Waters's 1983 departure. Even with Richard Wright's return in varying capacity, A Momentary Lapse Of Reason, The Division Bell and The Endless River albums sound clinical and without the true Pink Floyd magic, these 3 near Ambient and at least in the case of AMLOR even corporate albums are in effect the end products of the Pink Floyd cog of "The Machine".

[@rufus231]

The "Golden Era" didn't start until Dark side of the moon.

[@Craigevansagain]

@@rufus231 Whatever, Floydo Hater!!!! As great as it was, Dark Side Of The Moon was the beginning of the end of Pink Floyd. Their camaraderie, both within Pink Floyd and between them and their audience and their loved ones, was at its strongest in their early years and was lost forever in the aftermath of DSOTM. The pre-DSOTM period was critically important for the development of both Pink Floyd's live shows and their sound and had given us the brilliant masterpieces of The Piper At The Gates Of Dawn, Meddle and Live At Pompeii. Roger Waters was mourning the loss of Pink Floyd's camaraderie as much as the loss of Syd Barrett on Wish You Were Here. Pink Floyd, from Syd through The Final Cut and all, will always be class to me, and no one will ever take that away from me, least of all you!!!! 😠 * Roger Waters laughs maniacally in the background at my fury and your stupidity *

[@1tsmeadam]

8:47 it goes perfectly as 1.Nobody home 2.The Final Cut 3.Bringing the boys back home

[@Stevecurtis2112]

You know maybe you can make your own version of this album with rickesk keyboards that would likely make it a god tier album

[@occultdetective]

Second only to Animals. Roger Waters IS Pink Floyd for me. I appreciate the contributions of the other members, but Waters has always been the driving force and spiritual center of the post-Syd band, IMO.

[@rushbytor2112]

its your opinion only ,i love this album ,its a hidden gem