Album: Rattle That Lock

Overview
"Rattle That Lock" is the 4th solo studio album by David Gilmour, the guitar player and co-lead vocalist of the legendary British rock band Pink Floyd. Launched on September 18th, 2015, the album consists of 10 tracks and features a blend of rock, progressive rock, blues, and jazz aspects. It's the follow-up to Gilmour's successful 2006 record "On an Island". "Rattle That Lock" received mixed evaluations from critics but managed to peak at top in numerous countries, consisting of the UK and France.

The album was produced by Gilmour himself, alongside Roxy Music guitar player Phil Manzanera and Pink Floyd's exploring bassist, Guy Pratt. It also includes noteworthy musicians such as Jools Holland on piano and David Crosby and Graham Nash on backing vocals. Gilmour's other half, Polly Samson, co-wrote the majority of the album's lyrics, while lyricist Don Paterson contributed to one song.

The motivation behind "Rattle That Lock"
"Rattle That Lock" was heavily inspired by the works of English poet John Milton, particularly his most famous work, "Paradise Lost". According to Gilmour, the album's title track and lead single was influenced by Book II of the poem, which describes the fall of Satan and the other rebel angels from Heaven.

Gilmour has been quoted as saying, "Rattle that lock, lose those chains" which are the main lyrics of the album's title track. They motivate people to challenge and break free from the restraints they perceive as holding them back, whether they be social, individual, or ideological.

Key tracks
Rattle That Lock - The album's eponymous opening track includes Gilmour's signature soaring guitar work, stressed by brass and an appealing chorus. The song's central message motivates individuals to question and challenge the status quo, echoing styles present in many Pink Floyd's albums.

Today - The third track on the album, "Today", presents a positive tempo with a funky rhythm and features lyrics that mull over the past while welcoming the present. The addition of horns and gospel-like support vocals assist the tune attain a big-band feel.

Alternate Universe - "A Boat Lies Waiting" is a moving homage to Gilmour's former Pink Floyd bandmate, the late Richard Wright. The song showcases Gilmour's guitar virtuosity and level of sensitivity, accompanied by a sporadic and haunting piano arrangement.

Reception and accolades
While "Rattle That Lock" received mixed reviews from critics, it performed well commercially. The album debuted at number one on the UK Albums Chart, making it Gilmour's second consecutive solo album to do so, following "On an Island". It likewise arrived of the charts in a number of other countries, such as France, Belgium, and the Netherlands. "Rattle That Lock" made Gilmour a Progressive Music Award for Best Album.

Critics praised Gilmour's musicianship and emotional depth on the album however kept in mind that it lacked the conceptual cohesion present in his deal with Pink Floyd. Regardless of this, "Rattle That Lock" stands as a remarkable addition to David Gilmour's solo discography, supplying fans with a mix of familiar and brand-new musical designs, together with Gilmour's signature guitar noise.