SUNDAY SHOWDOWN: I Can't Breathe Anymore vs Near The End

[stonytokes]

ALRIGHT, R&D!!! ANOTHER SUNDAY MEANS IT'S TIME FOR ANOTHER SUNDAY SHOWDOWN!!! In honor of Dave's new tour kicking off this week's showdown features the final tracks from the two long lost (at least based on inclusion in recent tours) David Gilmour solo albums: his eponymous debut and About Face. In this corner...an introspective little ditty with a soaring solo...I CAN'T BREATHE ANYMORE!!! And in the opposing corner...a solemn rumination on conclusions...NEAR THE END!!! Frankly, I'd rather hear either or both of these songs more than eighty-five percent of the current setlist, but YMMV. Which hindmost hymn will win the week? YOUR VOTE DECIDES, SO MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD!!!

vs

[GiveBirthToSmile]

My vote is I Can't Breathe Anymore
Why that is, I'm not sure..

[Son of Nothing]

I Can't Breathe Anymore for me. I only ever bought the first solo album. I think I just don't like those acoustic numbers in 6:8 time. Rog favours those and my personal tastes find them boring (sorry to those who like that kind of thing, but: personal tastes). Also, I like the FX on the arpeggiated guitar in ICBA.

[Alan Smithee]

Mihalis Blue Light

[Paul]

NTE 100%. Forgot how good that is. Would totally fit in with his current setlist.

[stonytokes]

One hundred percent

[Flat Eggs]

Near the End, great acoustic solo just near the end... 🎶😌

[stonytokes]

These two titanic tunes are currently tied at twelve votes each! It appears we have a contest that may go all fifteen rounds, ladies and gentlemen! Make your voice heard and root for your favorite by casting your vote!

[stonytokes]

I'll tip the scales and vote for Near The End. For me, it's the total package: a haunting acoustic chord progression which features that hammer-on style that both Dave and Roger were using extensively around this time, some of the most profound lyrics that Dave ever penned, an incredible drum part from Jeff Porcaro (the way the snare comes in all on its own is genius), and some tasty bass licks from Pino...it doesn't get much better in my opinion. Possibly my favorite of all his solo work and would rank high even if I were to include all his work with the Floyd.

In short...it's a fucking masterpiece.