Controls are set

Ah, Pink Floyd. The band that can make even the most serious music snob let loose and float downstream. Their latest album, "Controls Are Set - Live In Essex 1971," is a trip down memory lane for both diehard fans and newbies to the psychedelic scene. The opening track, "One Of These Days," kicks things off with a bang. Roger Waters' bass thumps like a heartbeat, while David Gilmour's guitar wails like a banshee in heat. It's a perfect mix of chaos and control that sets the tone for the rest of the album. From there, the band launches into classics like "Echoes" and "Careful with That Axe, Eugene," showcasing their signature blend of mind-bending lyrics and intricate instrumentation. The live recording captures the raw energy and improvisational spirit that made Pink Floyd legendary in the first place. But it's not all sunshine and rainbows. The 20-minute "Set the Controls for the Heart of the Sun" drags on a bit too long, like a jam session that never wants to end. And "Atom Heart Mother" feels a bit dated, like that one uncle who still wears bell-bottoms to family gatherings. Overall, "Controls Are Set" is a solid addition to Pink Floyd's discography. It may not be their best work, but it's a reminder of why they're considered one of the greatest bands of all time. So sit back, light up a joint, and let Pink Floyd take you on a journey through time and space.