Godbluff
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Godbluff is the first record released by Van der Graaf Generator after they reformed in 1975. It is their fifth disc overall.
It features a tighter, more pared-down sound than the band's earlier recordings with John Anthony. Hammill makes extensive use of the Hohner Clavinet D6 electromechanical keyboard.
The first release of the record in the United States was on Mercury Records. The 2005 reissue added live performances by Van der Graaf Generator of two songs from Peter Hammill's album The Silent Corner and the Empty Stage (1974). The tracks were recorded at a concert at L'Altro Mondo, Rimini, Italy.
The sleeve design and lettering were later parodied on the cover of Fall Heads Roll by The Fall.
Track listing
All tracks written by Peter Hammill, except where indicated.
Side one
- "The Undercover Man" – 7:25
- "Scorched Earth" (Hammill, David Jackson) – 9:48
Side two
- "Arrow" – 9:45
- "The Sleepwalkers" – 10:31
Bonus tracks on CD reissue*
- "Forsaken Gardens" – 7:58
- "A Louse Is Not a Home" – 12:47
* Both recorded live on 9 August 1975
Personnel
- Peter Hammill – voice, piano, clavinet, electric guitar
- Hugh Banton – organs (including bass pedals), bass guitar
- Guy Evans – drums and percussion
- David Jackson – saxophones and flute