Richard Wright Wet Dream (2023 Remix) LP (Deep Blue Vinyl)

Tracking Angle Rated 8/10 Music, 8/10 Sound!

Remixed by Steven Wilson, this reissue comes with brand-new artwork that was commissioned and art directed by Gala and Jamie Wright, Richard's children and managers of his estate. As per the original release, the bi-fold sleeve folds out to extend the image and features the same vibrant color palette. This time, the unidentified person in bright red shorts is swimming within deep blue waters of the sea rather than a pool, and the image expands out to reveal a boat slightly out of their reach, referencing the nautical theme of the record. The image was taken by Costas Spathis, a photographer living and working in Greece, which is where the album was written and the graphic design is by Carl Glover. The vinyl version of the release will also come with a 12" print of the original artwork designed by Storm Thorgerson and photographed by Aubrey Powell for Hipgnosis.

Upon rediscovering this record, it becomes hugely apparent how much of Richard's DNA runs through Pink Floyd. His distinct rhythm patterns, song structure and style of play exudes throughout, shining a light on his unique talent and influence on modern music.

When originally released, post Pink Floyd's Animals (1977) and shortly before The Wall (1979), Wet Dream was largely under-appreciated. Steven Wilson's mix gives new life to the record demonstrating Wright's brilliance. He wrote and produced the whole album himself and it was one of only three albums released outside of Pink Floyd - Broken China, his second solo album from 1996 and Identity, released in 1983 under the guise of Zee, a duet with Dave Harris from Fashion.

Coveted by diehard Floyd enthusiasts, Wet Dream was reissued in the early 1990s in the USA and Japan only on CD. After being out of print for years, remix guru Steven Wilson breathes fresh life into the album. As with most of his remixes for other artists like Yes, King Crimson, and XTC, he respects the original mix and doesn't take unforgivable liberties. The soundstage is broad, with every element of the mix sounding more forward and direct as if removing a layer of dust. Steven Wilson also reinstates some extended musical passages left out of the original mix, such as an extra 30 seconds of Snowy White's guitar solo on 'Cat Cruise' and an extra 50 seconds of Mel Collins' saxophone solo on 'Waves.' The original mix will always be the basis of comparison, but could this remix be the new default?