The Madcap Laughs

UK version (with bonus tracks not found on the domestic US version), of the first Syd Barrett solo album. Originally released on Harvest in January 1970. During February 1968, Dave Gilmour had been drafted into The Pink Floyd and for a brief time they existed as a 5-piece. Soon, however, rumours circulated that Syd Barrett would be taking on a 'Brian Wilson' role, writing and recording material 'behind the scenes.' But by April it was clear that he had been ousted completely. Within a month of his axing, Barrett was back in Abbey Road. With his manager Pete Jenner as producer, Barrett began his solo career. Blending angular, riveting guitar-work and jaunty improvisation with more fragile and enchanting pieces, Barrett composed in a suitably elegiac fashion. Later in the recording process, Gilmour and Roger Waters would aid in co-production, shepherding Barrett through many takes and re-takes of what finally gelled as his most skilled and coherent solo record. Includes six bonus tracks including 'Octopus (Takes 1&2)', 'It's No Good Trying (Take 5)', 'Love You (Take 1)', 'Love You (Take 3)', 'She Took A Long Cold Look At Me (Take 4)', Golden Hair (Take 5)'