The Pink Floyd & Syd Barrett Story
Pink Floyd
Studio: Eagle Rock Entertainment
Release Date: May 20, 2014
Review Date: May 18, 2014
Next year will mark the 50th anniversary of the founding of one of the most innovative and storied bands in rock music: Pink Floyd. The Floyd can’t be discussed without mentioning the tremendous contributions, influence and legend of one of its founders, Syd Barrett.
Though a lot has been said and written about the tragedy known as Syd Barrett but nothing so in depth as the documentary, The Pink Floyd & Syd Barrett Story that is now available on 2DVD and Digital Video. Originally made in 2001, this documentary, presented in Dolby Digital Stereo, is now being presented with additional bonus material.
The Pink Floyd & Syd Barrett Story explores the tragic, yet celebratory life of the late, legendary lead guitarist and prominent songwriter of early Pink Floyd. With contributions from all members of Pink Floyd, as well as managers, friends, and others close to Syd, the documentary traverses the tale of this enigmatic rock legend, from his intelligent, thought-provoking songwriting and indelible stamp on the psychedelic music genre, to his 1968 departure from the band, when his increasingly erratic behavior made his continued participation in the band impossible. This 2DVD set also includes the additional interview “Roger Waters On Syd Barrett,” and a second disc with bonus uncut interviews with Roger Waters, David Gilmour, Nick Mason, and Richard Wright, and a performance of “Love You” by Graham Coxon.
Also included in the documentary are clips of one of Syd’s first drug experiences that was filmed by a friend as are chats inside the former flat of Syds, home movies and cuts from Barrett’s two solo albums.
Pink Floyd was revolutionary, pushing popular music into new cerebral dimensions, and Syd Barrett was an integral part of the band’s sound and lyrics. A charismatic cult figure with a flair for eccentricity, he crafted such unique hits as “See Emily Play” and “Arnold Layne,” as well as album tracks such as “Bike” and “Astronomy Domine.” His use of dissonance, feedback, and distortion in his guitar playing has inspired generations of musicians. After leaving Pink Floyd, he recorded two solo albums before vanishing from music altogether, retiring to his English hometown of Cambridge. Fans and reporters continued to travel there to seek out the reclusive Barrett until his death in 2006, at the age of 60.
At 214 minutes, The Pink Floyd & Syd Barrett Story 2DVD is an in-depth and comprehensive study of this music and cultural icon and is a must-have addition to any Pink Floyd fan or musicologist’s video library.