It would take something incredibly special to ever dethrone Animals as my all-time favorite album. I'm not sure it's entirely tied to quality, although this album's is unquestionably high. It is so tied with memory, nostalgia, and discovery for me that it will forever be unmatched in that department when combined with quality. I remember the exact moment I first heard this. Micki and I went to Barnes and Noble the day after Christmas with gift cards in hand, looking to blow them on books, DVDs, CDs, etc. I was definitely aware of Pink Floyd, had a few of their CDs, like The Dark Side of the Moon and The Wall, and felt it was time to branch out a bit, so I picked up Animals. We headed home from Mall of Georgia in Micki's CR-V, and she allowed me to play the CD as we drove. I vaguely remember her asking "what in the world is this" during one extended section of "Dogs," while I thought to myself the very same question, but in a completely different way. My mind was absolutely blown. It still is, every time I listen. For my money it's the band at their peak, not only from a songwriting and concept perspective, but the playing is top-tier. David Gilmour's slide guitar solo on "Dogs," Nick Mason's insane drum fills of "Pigs (Three Different Ones)," Richard Wright's nasty synths on "Sheep," I feel like every member got a chance to shine, with Roger Waters' songwriting at the forefront. It is always such a joy to come back to for me.
Reviewed on Tuesday, January 31st, 2023, 12:46pm.
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