Van Der Graaf Generator ‎– World Record

Their second studio release in a year, 1976's self-produced "World Records" has always been savaged by critics who saw it as a sell-out attempt by the band to court a more commercial sound and a bigger audience. While I can see why hardcore VDGG fans were put off by the album, reflecting my own lowbrow tastes, I'll readily admit that I've always enjoyed the album. At least part of the reason I like this outing stems from the fact it isn't as intense and complex as earlier releases. Don't get me wrong, propelled by Hammill's challenging lyrics and full of the band's patented melodic and rhythmic twists and turns this was instantly recognizable as a VDGG product. On the other hand, 'When She Comes' and 'A Place To Survive' may have been two of the most straightforward rockers they ever recorded (both literally kicked butt). Elsewhere 'Meurglys III, The Songwriter's Guild' even saw the band incorporating reggae into a song ... reggae for gawd's sake !!! No wonder critics had a meltdown. Another big surprise - Hammill was a decent guitarist. Who knew. Nah, he wasn't about to put Beck, or Clapton out of a job, but for a band that had relied on Hugh Banton's keyboards, Guy Evans' drums, and horn player David Jackson it was a surprise to hear an occasional guitar solo (check out Hammill's work about half way through 'Masks'). Standout track was the closing ballad 'Wondring'. Easily one of the prettiest things Hammill ever composed. It wasn't all as impressive. Clocking in at over 20 minutes, the second side suite 'Meurglys III, The Songwriter's Guild' seemed even longer. Reportedly inspired by one of Hammill's guitars, the composition bounced all over the place without ever establishing much of an identity, though you got to hear some additional Hammill lead guitar (though it was almost drown out by Jackson's squawking sax)..

In the UK 'Wondering' b/w 'Meurglys III, The Songwriter's Guild' (Charisma catalog CB 297) was released as the single. In France 'Masks (Parts 1 and 2)' was released (Charisma catalog number 6837 345).

The band toured extensively in support of the album, 1976 saw them undertake their first US tour. Unfortunately the album marked the last release by the original foursome. Personality conflicts with Hammill saw keyboardist Banton leave, followed in short order by sax player Jackson. The two were quickly replaced by ex-String Driven Thing violinist Graeme Smith and bassist Nic Potter. The revamped line up also decided to streamline the name to Van der Graaf.

"World Record" track listing:(side 1)
1.) When She Comes (Peter Hammill) - 8:01
2.) A Place To Survive (Peter Hammill) - 10:00
3.) Masks (Peter Hammill) - 6:55

(side 2)
1.) Meurglys III, The Songwriter's Guild (Peter Hammill) - 20:50
2.) Wondering (Peter Hammill - Hugh Banton) - 6:34