ON HIS 79th BIRTHDAY
(January 6th, 1946 - July 7th, 2006)
Syd Barrett was a founding member of Pink Floyd and a huge influence on psychedelic-experimental music worldwide. His distinctive guitar playing and experimental approach shaped the band's sound.
Syd was known for his innovative use of guitar effects. He often employed echo and reverb to create a cavernous sound. Barrett's slide guitar techniques, using a Zippo lighter or a steel slide to produce eerie, gliding notes were brilliantly performed in studio sessions as well as in live gigs. Syd was at some point the master of feedback sound, creating amazing textures of different flavors. His approach was centered on pushing the boundaries of conventional guitar playing.
Barrett's vocal contributions imbued Pink Floyd's early compositions with a distinctive childlike character making it a unique gifted singing style embellished with a bit of darkness and surreal lyrics.
After leaving Pink Floyd, Syd Barrett embarked on a solo career, releasing "The Madcap Laughs" in January of 1970, and "Barrett" in November of 1970. The two were recorded in London at Abbey Road Studios.
Barrett's songwriting is highlighted as previously said by surreal lyrics and unconventional structures. Tracks such as "Octopus", "Dominoes", Effervescing Elephant" exhibit his playful wordplay and ability to create vivid imagery for the listener to enjoy the stories in them.
Although these albums initially received mixed reviews, are now regarded as cult classics, and truly must listen to appreciate Barrett's genius beyond Pink Floyd.