MONDAY MARATHON: Van der Graaf Generator - Still Life + The Sleepwalkers |OUR REACTION (BMC Request)

[@claywalnum3143]

I had to smile when I saw you were taking on Van der Graaf Generator. They’ll definitely stretch your Prog muscles! Peter Hammill’s vocals are an acquired taste. You can tell by the beginning of the first song you listened to that he has a great voice, but on most songs he uses it in an unusual way. You’ve got to give this band time to sink in. Repeated plays are a must.

[@ComeOnIsSuchAJoy]

The interesting thing about Hammill is that I feel he _is_ a technically good singer, but has such an unusual approach to singing that it makes him kind of an anomaly.

[@JdoubleU1222]

It's easier if you think of it, like they did, as theatrical. Only more like The Phantom of the Opera, lol.

[@steveheir]

​@@JdoubleU1222Rock opera does come to mind amongst the other genres of music they weave together

[@stevemalek2970]

@@ComeOnIsSuchAJoy He's an excellent singer but like Kate Bush and Peter Gabriel he is a performance singer and his songs to be darker and more menacing and may turn off certain listeners.

[@BaldJean]

You ticked some of the right boxes in your reaction. You mentioned Peter Gabriel, Iron Maiden and David Bowie. Well, Genesis and Van der Graaf Generator were label mates at Charisma and toured together; also Peter Hammill, the singer of Van der Graaf Generator, is befriended with Peter Gabriel (they both have their studios in Bath), and Hammill sang background vocals on the 4th Peter Gabriel solo album. As to Iron Maiden: Their former singer Bruce Dickinson is a huge fan of the band. As was the late David Bowie who called himself "Poor Man's Peter Hammill" in an interview once. Both Bowie and Dickinson were at the reunion concert of Van der Graaf Generator on May 6th 2005 (after a 27 years hiatus). My wife Jeanine and I (same-sex marriage) were at that concert too. Their most experimental album is "Pawn Hearts" from 1971; it has only three long tracks, the longest being "A Plague of Lighthouse Keepers" at over 23 minutes. This song actually was a major inspiration for Genesis to do "Supper's Ready". Despite being so experimental the album was a huge success in Italy, where it stayed at the number 1 position in the album charts for 12 weeks. Peter Hammill is without doubt one of the very best lyricists in prog rock. I (Friederike) actually had the chance to have a very long walk and talk with him (about three hours) before one of his solo concerts; after the concert we drank a beer together. Van der Graaf Generator are definitely among our favorite musical artists, together with the French band Magma, who invented a completely new genre of music called "Zeuhl" and the language they sing in called "Kobaïan", and German organ player Barbara Dennerlein, who is a jazz musician and a true virtuoso on both Hammond and pipe organ. To fully understand what a virtuoso she is one either has to be at one of her concerts or see a video of her. Luckily there are lots of videos of her on KZbin.

[@mvunit3]

Or what was known as "RIO" (Rock in Opposition) . . . I love it. Thank you for all the insights and info :).

[@markmaxwell1013]

I remember you two well from Just JP. Nick is a talented guitarist and that may make him a bit too analytical occasionally as opposed to Justin who goes by feelings. VdGG/PH are by far my favorite band/artist but I was watching some Magma videos last night. Being fans of underrated bands in the most underrated genre doesn't make for much conversation around most dinner tables :-) nice to touch base with other people who have the patience to appreciate these bands. Also appreciate the bravery it takes for reactors to even try VdGG. Cool you got to meet Peter Hammill. VdGGmouse posted that he met him in 2005. What a great privilege for you! Peace and PH✌️

[@kidflersh7807]

I don't remember if there was proof about the David Bowie quote, but I've heard that thrown around alot. I know he give a record shopping list to someone and a Van Der Graaf album was on it, though.

[@BaldJean]

@@kidflersh7807 He definitely was at the reunion concert of VdGG.

[@jimhardiman3836]

Genesis: we thought we were the weirdest British band VDGG: Hold our bell bottoms

[@maciejkrasuski]

Music is so wide range of the art.. We've different expectations: one wants music to give him just relax, sometimes dance opportunity, but some of us just need more complex music for explorations and prog just gives that. No wonder, someone calls this weird. But for sure many prog bands have strong musicians - complex music needs strong music abilities.

[@jimhardiman3836]

@@maciejkrasuski it's not necessarily the music that makes these bands weird. It's the front man that often acted more like a thespian than a singer at times. Peter Gabriel dressing up in strange costumes, the odd lyrical content and the weird stories he would tell. It was too much to take for the average rock/blues music fan.

[@CFDavid847]

Van Der Graaf is a BRILLIANT band!!! Sleepwalkers is a compositional JEWEL and doesn’t truly get the recognition it deserves.

[@pauldavis5015]

A Van der Graaf Generator is a machine that can produce very high voltages by producing and collecting static electricity. Try a plague of Lighthouse keepers - epic.

[@bobriemersma]

That would be a Van de Graaff generator.

[@sylvanm4216]

"I think the band that's most out there when it comes to progressive in the 70s is Yes" -Oh, you sweet summer child. 😉 If you'd like to get a sense of how much deeper and weirder the prog rock rabbit hole goes, try listening to Magma, Henry Cow, This Heat, or perhaps some of Gentle Giant or King Crimson's more avant-garde material.

[@leoscone4036]

Ah...sweet! It is rare to hear mention of Henry Cow. Of course, they were already a step beyond progressive, operating in some space without a real name for it. Blessings.

[@rupbhatt]

Also there's RIO movement material from 70's.

[@mvunit3]

@@rupbhatt "Rock in Opposition", which has 3 Documentaries now.

[@tomt5745]

King Crimson is strellar when they let it all fall to the ground

[@kevinmulrooney3353]

I just love watching younglings listening to stuff I was listening to 50 years ago

[@gregjones861]

Absolutely brilliant band, and live they are mesmerizing. When they played at NEARfest my own band Pinnacle had the honor of playing the afterparty and their wonderful drummer listened to us and told one of the staff "Wow they actually got real musicians to play for this." I could have died content. Thanks for doing this.

[@vladimirzaharov1986]

wonderful, there are no words after these terrible days, like a breath of fresh air! thank you you are awesome!

[@Tacko14]

Vdgg, to me, is like: being so convinced and determined to do something that won’t get you laid or rich, that deserves respect. Years go by that I won’t listen, and then I rediscover them all over again, and I remember what I liked about them all along. It’s a very circuitous vibe, but it’s there alright

[@vitusdoom]

YES! YES! You finally did VDGG. One of my fave bands ever. Peter Hamill (the main man) was a huge influence on John Lydon. They are so heavy, but in a different way to everyone else. True pioneers of a sound. They are still going I believe. What a voice!!!

[@leoscone4036]

Welcome to the deep end. No one did huge spiritual and existential angst like VDGG and Peter Hammill in particular. He bares his soul and deepest thoughts and emotions about what humanity is and what it could be. I saw him perform solo once back in the '70's. I have never been more drained by a musician. That intensity you hear in his voice? He drew on us like willing victims of a vampire. And he was breathtaking, and incredibly draining. I've never felt so wiped out inside after a concert, and yet fulfilled and satisfied. From "Still Life", "Childlike Faith In Childhood's End" is a monster. Save it for last. Do this whole album. And when you think you can tread water in the deep end? Yes, "A Plague of Light House Keepers" is requisite. Blessings.

[@PaulMDove2]

You asked what it was like first hearing this in the '70s. I was blown away and VDGG have been my favorite band now for 50+ years. They're still around, I saw them live last week on 24th February and they were amazing. For me Peter Hammill is a poet and his vocals are poetry more than singing. Not that the music isn't equally important. It's hard to think of something lighter of theirs to recommend, only tracks that come to mind are "Wondering" and "My Room (Waiting For Wonderland)" but that's just my opinion and you, and others, might think those two tracks are as "out there" as any others.

[@stephenvarty191]

Mine too Paul

[@sylvanm4216]

"House with No Door" and "Refugees" would be a couple other possibilities for somewhat lighter, smoother VDGG tracks.

[@PaulMDove2]

As an alternative to starting with VDGG, a lighter introduction to just Mr Hammill might be something from his The Love Songs album, a collection of love songs from his other solo albums. I'd recommend Vision or The Birds.

[@pauldover1403]

I'm jealous that you've seen them, I never did and although they occasionally were played on radio in the Seventies I don't think that they ever got the exposure they deserved.

[@lemming9984]

I saw them last week at the Forum in Bath. Great show, it's amazing that the three of them still has what it takes. The highlight was A Louse Is Not A Home.

[@MisterWondrous]

Van der Graaf Generator would only be found in the collections of the most advanced intellectuals. Most had to be special ordered. I first became aware of them in the mid '70s because a genius who was building the early stages of the Internet, moved to Charlotte from Manhattan and because of our shared love for King Crimson, we became chums. Visiting him was a guilty pleasure because he was so smart, and in so many ways. He had memorized chunks of Finnegans Wake for instance. But musically, he had mostly classical, contemporary classical (Glass, Reich, Riley, Xenakis, Crumb, Cage, Stockhausen, Subotnik, etc. and also electronic music from Tomita and others. But he also had Van der Graaf Generator, early Genesis, King Crimson, Yes, Fripp & Eno, Faust, Kraftwerk, Renaissance, Moody Blues, Strawbs, and a sprinkling at the very top end. Anthony Phillips was in there. None of which ever made it to radio, even though it is the best of what was created at the time. An acquired taste for sure. Unlike many bands who came after, these folks are in no way derivative. They are the pioneers. Boston has the world's largest Van der Graaf generator, which is great fun to see live. There are demonstrations on KZbin, worth a look. It is at the "Science Museum" of Boston.

[@jossuemartinez6875]

U forgot Can brooo

[@vitusdoom]

I can see every emotion on your faces! Haha! Amazement, bewilderment, excitement, boredom, euphoria! God bless Van Der Graff! Scorched Earth is my fave song by them.

[@grahamkey8496]

Lex definitely seemed to enjoy it more than Nick though.

[@erikberg5363]

I was already into a lot of Prog when I first heard these guys and I definitely wasn’t ready for them. I have to admit I didn’t really enjoy their music much at first but there was something about them that kept me coming back despite that. After listening to them once in a while for maybe a year or so, something finally “clicked” and they’re now one of my favourite bands! I hope you come back to them at some point, though you might want to wait a little while…

[@mackeymintle66]

Another group I keep putting off. Free sneak peek! Thanks!

[@lemming9984]

If you want to go further I highly recommend some earlier stuff - Lost, Man-Erg or Darkness.

[@bengazeley9730]

I saw them last Thursday in London

[@JonDalladay]

Me too! 😁

[@lemming9984]

I saw them last Tuesday in Bath! A Louse Is Not A Home - oh yeah!

[@Tacko14]

I just saw Peter Hamill do Still Life live in 2018, just him, a mic and an old piano. Go see. Not for a reaction, just… wow. He must be in his 70s now, you can nearly see his bones, but… wow

[@lemming9984]

Yes, Hammill still has the wow factor. I saw VdGG live last week in Bath. Hammill really is gaunt and scrawny now, but he still performs well!

[@jstock2317]

holy moly! VDGG is so awesome!!! but certainly extremely avant-garde and often quite dissonant and you have to be in the mood! the two here are fan favorites and are even more dense than their early 70s stuff, so sometimes veteran fans prefer the later albums more, but their early stuff is prime prog imo. Yes and VDGG are my 2 faves! I honestly can't blame you for not liking it too much on the first listen, because I myself feel the same way often! that being said they always surprise me and once i've given an album 5 or so listens things start to click and you learn all of the weir changeups and you notice the buildup and changing of the larger structure of the songs. you might want to have lyrics up as the songs are emotionally driven and if you don't know the lyrics it can be especially hard to follow and their songs are very theatrical, often with a plot or some progression to the story. they are surely known for being an acquired taste, so most first listens fall flat, even for VDGG fans like myself. VDGG is extremely dissonant and unpredictable, but once you learn the song it unfolds and the grooves are so sick. I'd actually suggest their 23 minute epic "A Plague of Lighthouse Keepers" which is about a lighthouse keeper in a storm watching ships crash upon the rocks as he runs out of wax for the light. that being said, they also have very chill music as well, and the safe song for new listeners is usually "Refugees". they use sax instead of electric guitar usually, with the occasional acoustic guitar.

[@JohnMacRae23]

Label mates and touring buddies of Genesis in the early 70s. Brilliant uncompromising band, with a large catalog... and still going. I guess the "acquired taste" applies but they have a legion of diehard fans. Peter Hammill's lyrics (& vocals) take some time to get into but well worth it. VDGG was one of the few prog bands punk guys liked (John Lydon is a huge fan).

[@lemming9984]

"Diehard", that's me! I saw them live last week in Bath.

[@andrewmackinnon3378]

WOW! That was fun to watch. Seeing you enjoy it and scratch your heads all at the same time. VDGG makes my top 5 bands (probably more like top 3). You won't hear very much guitar in their early work and not that much more later on. Peter Hammil played whatever guitar is included and admittedly wasn't a confident enough player to start playing it live until later on in VDGG's career. Genesis and VDGG are the quintessential prog bands in my opinion. Brilliant!!

[@PJprog]

If you really enjoy ' Suppers Ready ' try VDGG - A plague of lighthouse keepers. It's another longy but goody prog epic. VDGG are just so cool. And if I can pay tribute to Gary Brooker from Procol Harum, there long epic ' In held twas in I' was probably the first of this type. An absolute classic. From their album 'Shine on brightly'. Lots of love NicknLex. Keep up the sterling work. 🤩

[@shyshift]

I agree about In Held T’was In I but I recommend the live version on Live from Edmonton with Symphony and Choir. No Robin Trower but you won’t notice.

[@ComeOnIsSuchAJoy]

I seem to recall someone gifting them the _Pawn Hearts_ album in one of their unboxing videos.

[@TomZacchini]

Van der Graaf ist ein Meilenstein in der Geschichte des prog rock. Still life ist mein Lieblingsalbum,aber es lohnt sich mehr von dieser Band zu hören! Auch Peter Hammill's Solo Alben sind ein muss! Empfehlenswert: Silent corner and the empty stage von Hammill mit dem wohl bestem Song der jemals geschrieben wurde, A louse is not a home. Großartig! Liebe Grüße aus Deutschland

[@rupbhatt]

Don't worry guys, it took me years to get into VDGG as well, but once it finally hit, it was special.

[@eaglemike5293]

A plague of lighthouse keepers is a masterpiece!

[@flowersnyams]

A P O L Keepers is arguably the greatest piece of English progressive music ever written, with the impressive MAN-ERG not far behind. Best prog band ever, I love Pink Floyd but compared to these boys the Floyd are 'Prog-light'

[@lemming9984]

Equal at number 1 VdGG songs - Plague, Lost and Man Erg.

[@keithhider2170]

This is really being thrown in at the deep end! IMHO prog rock bands are best approached chronologically - if you start with their first albums (or, in VDGG's case, I'd actually start with their second, "The Least We Can Do is Wave to Each Other") you understand their evolution and develop an appreciation for their music which you can't expect to get just dipping into a random track. Also, tracks like this need to be listened to in the context of the structure of the album as a whole - or at least one side of the original vinyl LP.

[@berniemojzes2989]

When I was in 11th grade, this guy in my math class who was introducing me to prog music (king crimson, gentle giant, etc.) told me not to listen to VDGG, because I "wasn't ready." So of course I immediately ran out and bought Pawn Hearts, listened to it non-stop for a week straight, said, "I don't get it," and put it away. Once a year for the next few years, I'd pull it out and listen, just to see. Nope. Then one year, I think in my 3rd year of college, I got it. One of my favorite bands of all time. That said, I'm not sure I'd start someone with "The Sleepwalkers." I'd probably recommend "The Undercover Man" (also from Godbluff), or "When She Comes" as songs that dance a little further back from the edge of chaos.

[@cahyarmdhn]

If you consider listening to their other songs, i would suggest arrow, man-erg, or just go straight into their magnum opus "a plague of lighthouse keepers"

[@baldus63]

Still life is one of my favorite VDGG songs. Finally I ear this song live in 2009 in Guastalla, Italy! 75 days after my liver transplant, with the face mask, in the first row, clinging the barriers and crying with my son and my friends that help me… ❤

[@GenesisLover2002]

Thank you for the band suggestion, Nick! I'll have to check out Spiral Architect. Van Der Graaf Generator is undoubtedly a difficult band to get into. Their music has a very relentless quality, but I still find many of their songs to be quite melodic and memorable; it just takes a good amount of listening. But like you said in the video, no other band sounds like them, and I LOVE them for that. Godbluff is one of my top 10 favorite prog albums ever. H to He, Pawn Hearts, and Still Life are all fantastic, too. Regardless of how your VDGG journey goes on from here, I'm very grateful that you guys gave them an honest try :) ... Looking forward to some more Steely Dan reactions; Countdown to Ecstasy will knock your socks off 🧦🧦

[@mvunit3]

As Nick may know, I'm a HUGE fan of Spiral Architect, but it may be tough to get into because its of the Prog Metal vein, but with a VERY melodic vocalist that can sing in the high ranges. But most of the members actually come from the "Black Metal" genre, but they actually have impressive chops. I'm always amazed that vocalist "Øyvind Hægeland" could find the rhythm and melody to sing over the controlled chaos. The predecessor to SA would be "Watchtower", especially the album from 1989 "Control and Resistance"; Øyvind is a huge fan of bands like; Fates Warning, Psychotic Waltz, Rush, and Watchtower. For more bands like this (with melodic vocalists) . . . 6. kzbin.info/aero/PL2DU3TBNutEe1lLsoKvpuwBhnFVbQYWO4 9. kzbin.info/aero/PL_zmdsN11qLE_nRVvJPl4Ib3cJEBn4tbu (corresponding "parts" are linked in the description of each playlist) - Hope you enjOy.

[@multi-purposebiped7419]

That was quite funny, the transition from "Not very proggy but I think it is prog" to "Prog overload!" I personally will never get tired of those two songs, nor about twenty others by VDGG.

[@taichijohn6071]

Just for fun: A Van de Graaff generator is an electrostatic generator which uses a moving belt to accumulate electric charge on a hollow metal globe on the top of an insulated column, creating very high electric potentials. It produces very high voltage direct current electricity at low current levels. - Wikipedia

[@Prog_drummer35]

Best band ever!

[@Tintop]

I needed like 10 years to appreciate VdGG, and then suddenly I had 7 records of them in my shelf and now they're in my Top 3 favourite bands. I just love them and my absolute favourite song of them is "House with no door" from their 1970 Album "H to He, who am the only one". Check out out. It's like a ballad. Very emotional.

[@davedesilets3340]

When I first listened to Vdgg I was amazed how much you could do without a bass or a guitar...dave jackson is an amazing sax player

[@lemming9984]

Seeing them live, Hugh Banton is fascinating to watch. He has rows of foot pedals for bass and other effects. His feet are sometimes busier than his hands!!

[@richardcompton2639]

For lyricism, distinctive sound, and raw emotion, few can come near vdg. Superb!

[@hasltisl]

Direct honesty in your reactions is one of your superpowers. Never compromise that. I came to VDGG late in life and they just seem like too much work for me to get into. However, they do sound like a band that I would have loved if I started listening to them in the 1970s in high school. Sometimes you may have to grow up with it to grow into it. (Like early Jethro Tull?) Great, honest reaction. And I must say these kinds of reactions allow you both to move into interesting areas of discussion.

[@debrabrabenec3731]

Great comment, Mark!

[@Rowenband]

I write this comment just before you start listening: I'm really curious to see you react to VDGG. One of my 3 favorite bands of all time, but so special. A first listen to them is always strange. I love you guys you are so natural and seem to be real nice people. All the best to you. And I hope you liked it… (I'll learn that in a few minutes).

[@Yes_Jorge_Yes]

Van Der Graaff is an amazing ride... with regards to Hammond Organ most british groups of the 1970s used Hammond Organs. Now Rick Wright also use a Vox and Farfisa Combo organ most notable in Echos.

[@willyvlyminck138]

My all time favorite band and music

[@frankswarbrick7562]

BTW, check out some live videos where you can see David Jackson playing two saxophones at the same time!

[@markmaxwell1013]

His saxophone in Sleepwalkers 2005 Rockpalast is one of my favorite musical performances of all time!

[@cometogether999]

As a fan of Prog, I'm somewhat ashamed to say that I'm not familiar with Van der Graaf Generator. Especially in the days where all music is available at one's fingertips. I liked the second one better than the first.

[@eaglemike5293]

You have to liste to a plague of Lighthouse keepers , it is sooo good

[@lemming9984]

Try Lost, Man-Erg or Darkness next - recorded before the two songs here.

[@beldin2987]

You should really also listen to "Childlike Faith in Childhood's End" from the Still Life album, thats just one of their greatest songs ever (imho). Grüsse aus Bremen

[@kevlar_t4echo]

Nice! Love me some Van Der Graaf ....in one of the Rush docs, there is an interview (i believe it was prior to the Pink Pop Festival show), in which Neil is wearing a Van Der Graaf Generator t-shirt. Geddy as well gives VDG as well as the Talking Heads a verbal approval of making interesting music at the time.

[@therealtwiggyleaf]

Thanks for the Van Der Graaf Generator video. A VERY prog English band. Peter Hammill (the vocalist and main writer) also has some stunning solo albums to check out. If you feel inclined towards a long song, I would recommend "Flight" from the album A BLACK BOX. 😊

[@lemming9984]

Yeah, perfect!

[@frankswarbrick7562]

With regard to your "proggy" comment, I think you're a bit under a misconception that to be proggy it must be flashy and virtuosic. Definitely not the case. VdGG is about as proggy as a band can be! I don't know if it's been mentioned, but your note about the lack of guitar is absolutely true. There is occasional guitar in some songs, but it's rarely in the forefront. They also don't have a bass player! The keyboardist does occasionally play bass guitar, but most of the "bass" sounds are done on keyboards (or maybe bass pedals).

[@ianmc8671]

A Plague Of Lighthouse Keepers is their prog magnus opus. Very prog and very out there.

[@BenjWarrant]

_A plague of lighthouse keepers, Man-Erg, Killer, Lemmings, The emperor in his war-room_ (vdGG) and _Easy to slip away, (In the) Black room, The lie (Bernini's St Teresa)_ and the mighty _A louse is not a home._ Songs that infected my head in the 70s and even now I can go through pretty much all of them in my head.

[@frankswarbrick7562]

Lexa knows her dance moves!

[@mvunit3]

See! Yeah, they were "moving" to the music and had great expressions as they were enjoying it. I hope they re-watch the Reaction video. Sometimes the body leads before the mind ;). I hope the fans can suggest trax that are easier to digest though, to ease them in. I only know a few tracks so I need to do a deeper dive.

[@ErikGoosen]

I see you struggling with VDGG. I know that feeling. It takes time but give it that time because there is so much to discover. Try two of their more accessible songs: House with no door and one of my favorites Undercover Man. Seeing all the music you like on your channel, I know VDGG should be part of it.

[@scat11]

VDGG de mis favoritos!

[@vdggmouse9512]

When a band has a HUGE catalog - When a band has a 'significant' loyal following - When a band is both eclectic as well as less experimental - When a band has a truly unique voice - When a band has music to satisfy I'd say ALL types of listeners - It is important to introduce that band 'properly.' With so many songs - that's not easy and new listeners are tough critics. Everyone loves music so naturally they 'think' they know what they like - immediately. We - who grew up with prog know differently. We will not be able to convince the new listener with words. Remember how stubborn we were. The first song must be catered to the new listener. It must pique the new listener's curiosity and not be overly complex. And sometimes less is more. Newer listeners attention spans are not like ours since we grew up in the album era. A short song might be the right song. Some listeners could be introduced to VdGG with the instrumental 'Theme One.' A great song! If the new listener says they like prog - and cite Rush, Kansas and ELO - you have a tough sell with them. Are you an album listener or adding to your playlist? Think of Pink Floyd's Dark Side Of The Moon. Isn't that an example of a work that is best heard from beginning to end? Van der Graaf's music takes more than just one listen for the great majority. When introducing them - I have found there are two methods I use most often. A simple song - perhaps a Peter Hammill solo song first - the song 'Vision' is good especially for women. Or if the new listener is into prog I've had the most success starting them off with either 'Man-erg' or 'Arrow.' Make sure the new listener is reading the lyrics while experiencing whichever song. After positive initiation go chronologically - with Aerosol Grey Machine - it makes more sense that way. AND - Intersperse the Peter Hammill albums within the VdGG albums so the listener learns the whole story. AND after In Camera (1974) and before Nadir's Big Chance (1975) play the album 'The Long Hello' (1974). Mix with water and stir - and you have a VdGG fan for life!

[@Pstephen]

Van der Graaf are the best. Van der Graaf and The Fall.

[@albertpostolides771]

PH visionary man of my childhood! This is serious music.

[@63MGB1]

Hanmill's voice reminds me a little of Richard Sinclair at times when he sings more softly. Have to admit I've only heard a little bit of VDGG. Specifically, A Plague of Lighthouse Keepers, which is fascinating.

[@Alix777.]

The Dark Genesis. I recommend their album "Pawn Hearts". Grandiose and raw.

[@CFDavid847]

I never thought of them that way but that description actually works!!! A Dark Genesis!!! Yes indeed!!

[@grahamkey8496]

I loved this band the first time I heard them as an angst-ridden 18 year old. Mesmerising, shocking, thrilling, and utterly different to anything else. Saw Hammill solo in the 80s and was fortunate to witness the reunion tour in 2005 with David Jackson and his multitude of saxophones. I've not seen them since as I fear I would miss Jackson too much.

[@antoniovandoni5410]

Qué fabuloso es el final de The Sleepwalkers... me alegra que suban estos temas, Van der Graaf Generator es incomparable. Y su ábum Pawn Hearts, su obra maestra.

[@anthonyschell9225]

Saw them live last night! An amazing performance - to see a group that dates back to 1969 still able to really cut the mustard with so many original members. There is no one else who sounds like VDGG - not everyones cup of tea as their music is quite dark, but they do reward more listens.

[@edmundoveloso6043]

Van der fucking epic graaf generator. sublime. best band ever.

[@MadrigalDream]

You have to Listen to A PLAGUE OF LIGHTHOUSE KEEPERS ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ You'll be glad you did. That's the point of entry for This Fantastic Group 😊

[@wesleycolemanmusic]

Great band; glad someone suggested it to you. As I've heard reactors say, these are "growers" and not "showers." I too am on team A Plague Of Lighthouse Keepers.

[@Lightmane]

I always feel like I'm in a theater watching a play when I listen to VdGG. Not sure if that's a good thing or a bad thing : ) A Plague of Lighthouse Keepers is definitely their EPIC that you want to hear though.

[@maciejkrasuski]

Endless musicianship... VDGG so easy walks on different genres, jazz prog, even metal... Great vocals and marvelous instruments, but no solos, only teamwork... Geniuses. Not so easy on first contact, but so rewarding on deeper dive.

[@paulkirk9168]

Hi Nicknlex, Van de Graff is correct spelling ( he died in 67 ) and band thought it was a good name but accidently misspelt it!. Yes it is very intense, weird and odd but that is what's great about prog because everyone was trying to be different and did not have to worry about putting singles out and in some cases had limited commercial success! As others have mentioned Pawn Hearts is a must listen. Another band i don't think you have reacted to yet is Hawkwind!

[@ColpoRosso]

"it's too much" yeah, too much fun! Van der graaf is an awesome band. If you can, listen to the solo stuff from peter hammill. There's punk, 80s pop and 90s prog revival in there. My fave is Roaring Forties.

[@stevensabella7287]

I have to admit i think these were odd choices for a place to start with VDG. There are MUCH better tracks, or at least more accessible tracks to start. I would have suggested "Killer", "Man-Erg", or the side long "A Plague of Lighthouse Keepers". But VDG is an acquired taste, and definitely requires multiple listens to hear all the nuances.

[@sanspareil3018]

Very interesting reaction and comments. Back in the early 1970s I thought that Genesis with PeterG. was the best thing. Then I read some album reviews contrasting label mates Genesis with Van Der Graaf Generator so of course it peeked my interest. Then one Saturday afternoon on a Prog show that was on radio the DJ played “Still Life” by this band I had read about. “Goodness what was that” was my reaction “I have to buy the record”. So I did but wasnt sure I liked it, then as I listened to it more I began to realise that this was something very different, no lead guitar, amazing vocals, classical keyboards, jazz sax….what hit me was this was something that you had to put a lot effort into in order to get something out! I became a die hard Van Der Graaf man. Pawn Hearts being probably the ultimate VDGG experience. I cant say I listen to them much these days but they changed the way I listen to music. Totally unique!! Incidentally they are named after a Van de Graaf Generator for producing high voltage static electricity but got the spelling wrong!

[@tonys2899]

I love SOME of the music by Vander graf Generator. At his best, their singer, Peter Hammill reminds me of Fish of Marillion. I love his delivery on certain songs. That said, They are hit and miss for me. I agree these 2 songs aren't re-listens for me My favorite album is 1977's The Quiet Zone/The Pleasure Dome. I can listen to that album over and over again, it's less out their and more comfort zone prog to me. I would have started you with Lizard Play, Last Frame, and Cat's Eye/Yellow Fever off that album. I might have sent you it on a flash drive when I sent that Wilson Hand Cannot Erase shirt, but I am not sure if I included it, it's been a while. Oh, and if you have ever taken Calculus classes, you will love their song Mathematics. I mean you've gotta love a song that has the line "E to the power of i times pi plus one is zero!"

[@frankswarbrick7562]

I think you should say Fish reminds you of PH, since PH was first! :-)

[@tonys2899]

@@frankswarbrick7562 true, and I think I read somewhere that he was an influence of Fish.

[@user-mq3hi3kp9e]

Hi, first time communicating with you form Montreal. Presenting myself, I'm O'Sunkist... Really like your team, and the discovery factir that you bring is great. Love the variety...Joni, Neil, Dan..etc. Now, I would like to suggest some other songs that I feel you would like best. Here are suggestions: VDGG - Pilgrims, La Rossa Peter Hammill (singer) accompanied by VDGG musicans (!?) - The Institute of Mental Health AND the sad but intense and beautiful Too many of my yesterdays. Hope you get through thèse difficultés that you're coping with. Keep your heads up, your spirit will get you through.

[@TrevRockOne]

sleepwalkers is my favorite song. there's a lot of thematic development. it's random or chaotic at all.

[@bodyhater]

' exactly those sounds you talk about, as rhythm, remained in my head vor over 25 years now, and keep getting back to listen their seventies albums, Yes, Rush, dont have this crushing obsessive palette.( min 26:23)

[@willpike3416]

I really like you to hear PFM ,if you have not checked them out yet , 70s jazz rock , "Left handed theory " or "Chocolate Kings "

[@ftlpope]

All your roads seem to going in the predictable correct direction, However, like all bands that last a long time, there are good patches and not so good. VGG's best albums are 'The Least We Can Do Is Wave To Each Other,' 'H to HE who am the only one' and 'Pawn Hearts.' The Hamill solo album 'Fools Mate' is great. VGG were part of the prog quartet including Yes, Genesis and KC. Go and see The Daily Doug for reviews of Atom Heart Mother and Pawn Hearts.

[@GorgonTheHybrid]

Being a rabid 70's progressive rock fanatic, I've tried so hard to get into Van Der Graaf Generator, but in the end I just find their subject matter and lyrics a little too dark for my tastes, and they're probably the most popular 70's prog band I don't love, even though I still admire and appreciate them, especially the epic track A Plague of Lighthouse Keepers. They can be a difficult group to get into, much like Gentle Giant, but I've learned to truly love Gentle Giant over time, whereas VDGG I still struggle with.

[@hammilliet]

best band ever,but you must listen it a few times

[@roberthardin2133]

this is definitely the avant- side of prog! I really love VDGG, but it took a long time for me to warm to them. otoh-I am a massive fan of solo Peter Hammill (the singer)!

[@Evansforrest]

Definitely out there. Not a guita band, keys and sax. Peter Hammils singing is very theatrical and expressive. His lyrics are darker and deeper than almost any band. Thought provoking. Especially the second song, sleepwalkers, topic is dark and intense. To me it’s fascinating and beautiful, but it is NOT commercial

[@Vince-lq3ve]

It is said that sometimes the more you hate a band when you first hear them, the more you will like them later on. If that's the case, one day I am really really really gonna like this band.

[@stewartthomas9140]

It's challenging music and it's not for everyone. However having said that, if you stick with it you can train your musical ear to listen and be rewarded. I would recommend The album Pleasure dome/ quiet zone. The tracks are more popish and shorter. The Sphinx in the Face is very catchy and you will like. The personnel have changed slightly.They are a English band and Peter Hamnmil is the singer songwriter, keyboards and guitarist. Check it out guys

[@user-bv6ot3hy1h]

I am a genesis and Floyd fan for many years now VDGG, are likewise British. Want a great Marathon, check out World Record. 1975. / 76. A complete masterpiece.

[@frankswarbrick7562]

If you think this was "too busy", you're really in for it if you listen to "A Plague of Lighthouse Keepers". Somtimes they are pretty much playing two different songs at the same time! Maybe don't make that your next listen, even though others are recommending it. I'd recommend listening to the entire Godbluff album first, and if you don't like it after several listens they simply might not be for you. Listing to Pawn Hearts before getting used to the band might just turn you right off. Of course that's where I started, but I had to give it a lot of listens before I truly "got it".

[@CanigoCatala]

VdGG needs a slow digestion. I love these two songs. VdGG can go from very mellow relaxed tunes to very aggressive, punk-like tunes in the same song. This is consider eclectic progrock (as King Crimson and Gentle Giant) or the Mexican Fabiola Simac (you should react to her recent album Immersion)

[@geoffw913]

So glad you have hit upon VdgG... You either love them or hate them, very little middle ground! They were and still are (just touring UK as we speak) darkly progressive with deeply none repetitive lyrics! My Room (Waiting for Wonderland) off the same album moves me both lyrically and musically and a song I listen to at least once a month. If you like the saxophone then this will hit the spot... a mesmerising song... give it a go👍

[@carlosmachucabustamante2965]

Glad to hear about Spiral Architect.... what a insanely complex music!!!!... just one album, but what album.... to me, in the vein of spastic ink or blotted science kind of technical side of progressive metal.... Spinning, insect and conjuring collapse, the top songs ...

[@mvunit3]

Here . . . Have some more :) VI: kzbin.info/aero/PL2DU3TBNutEe1lLsoKvpuwBhnFVbQYWO4 IX: kzbin.info/aero/PL_zmdsN11qLE_nRVvJPl4Ib3cJEBn4tbu (links to other "parts" are linked in the description of each playlist)

[@shyshift]

Just Organ and Peter Hammill in the beginning the bass is Hugh Banton playing with his feet.

[@michaosanna]

"the sleepwalkers" was also a book by the historian christopher clark, he described the strange situation of the world at the edge of the first world war. This comes to my mind nowadays again - were we all sleepwalkers, will our time soon be ended? A monument of a song, btw - it don't need any guitar parts - also is "still life"

[@slackdude1]

Correct about the Floyd and Bowie similarities. At that point he was in a class of his own. Bowie probably outshone him a bit later on and Floyd only really compared vocally on the wall. Godbluff is a complete vocal masterpiece even by his standards. You guys are fun to watch

[@axolotl8694]

this may be counterintuitive, but I'd say take the time to listen to the whole album. a single track may be overwhelming. but in context, it makes sense.

[@TrevRockOne]

someone I played VdGG for once described them like Pink Floyd with Rob Halford on vocals

[@waldorfstatler3129]

Van de Graaf Generator's "A Plague of Lighthouse Keepers" is a better choice off their excellent Pawn Hearts album. I'm not a fan of Hammills 'theatrical' vocals but that aside, the music is superb. Lots of jazzy impro from saxophonist David Jackson and organist Hugh Banton to wet your appetite here.

[@MrJoak85]

Try their most accessible album "The least we can do is wave to each other"

[@vdggmouse9512]

How can you both listen to this and NEVER even mention or look at the lyrics? To me - the greatest music combines music and lyrics - and you should have noticed that Peter Hammill was saying ....something! This music needs more than one listen to ....sink in or take hold. But - maybe you two don't care about the words - if so - then VdGG will not win you over. When I looked at your expressions I felt that Nick was slightly struggling but I saw Lex smiling the whole time and would have thought she loved what she heard. I guess I was wrong.

[@lemming9984]

Yep, they really needed the lyrics.

[@peterfhere9461]

I'd suggest listening to some of VDGG's more "accessible" tracks first - Killer, Emperor in his War Room, Whatever would Robert have said - then progress to things like A Plague of Lighthouse Keepers or Lemmings....

[@carlosmachucabustamante2965]

Ahhh.... about Van der graaf Generator, not easy first listen, but a rewarding one. Not the kind of prog like yes or Rush (in terms of complexity...), it's more about emotion and intensity.... specially their first 4 records... H To H, who am the only one and PAWN HEART their peak.... A second chance they deserve!!!!!.... Man erg, Killers, lost, lemmings....again, not easy, but catchiest and for me, way better than those just listen now..

[@Ashanath-Music]

Spiral architect ,my favorite sabbath song

[@Rowenband]

And don't forget Hammill started in 1968 and he was an influence on Peter Gabriel, not the reverse. They were great friends, and lived in the same town, Bath. And Bowie too was a Hammill fan. Listen to the whole Godbluff album, the best !!! Especially the song Arrow, where Hammill's voice is so incredible. You have to get more into it. I feel Alex liked it more that Nick. So Nick give Alex another chance !!!

[@ComeOnIsSuchAJoy]

_The Quiet Zone/The Pleasure Dome,_ their last album before their initial breakup, is perhaps their most accessible effort ("Cat's Eye - Yellow Fever [Running]" will definitely stick in your head for days), and perhaps their debut, _The Aerosol Grey Machine,_ as well. You might want to try those out.

[@e.nowbodhi144]

the concept of the song is that it's the future, and humans have through technology achieved immortality... and it's no fun

[@renepeterse1884]

They’re English, named after a invention of a Dutch professor.