Album: Out of Water

Introduction
"Out of Water" is the 14th solo album by English singer-songwriter and artist Peter Hammill, released in February 1990. Hammill is best referred to as the founder and frontman of the progressive rock band Van der Graaf Generator. This album marked a distinct shift in direction from the political and social themes present in his previous work and showed a more introspective and personal method to songwriting. Including elements of rock, pop, and classical music, "Out of Water" provides an engaging story and showcases Hammill's distinct singing design and moody plans.

Production and Recording
The album was produced by Peter Hammill himself and taped during 1989 at his Sofa Sound studio in Wiltshire, England. With Hammill playing the majority of the instruments, the album also includes contributions from several artists who had previously dealt with or had a connection to Hammill: David Jackson (saxophones and flutes), Stuart Gordon (violin and viola), and Nic Potter (bass guitar), all members or former members of Van der Graaf Generator.

Track Listing and Overview
"Out of Water" comprises nine tracks, each showcasing a distinct mood and sonic texture. The album opens with "Evidently Goldfish", a somber meditation on aging and the passage of time that displays Hammill's capability to craft deeply emotive melodies. The second track, "Not the Man", is a haunting expedition of identity, self-discovery, and inner struggle. "No Moon in the Water" continues the introspective journey and features a beautiful duet in between Hammill's susceptible vocals and Jackson's emotive saxophone playing.

The album takes a turn toward darker, heavier rock in "Our Oyster", a powerful and dissonant track that shows Hammill's skill as a rock vocalist. "Something about Ysabel's Dance" is a standout track that features a hypnotic violin riff and a teasing vocal shipment from Hammill, weaving a cryptic tale about the titular character. "Green Fingers" is a mournful ballad that showcases Hammill's present for crafting poignant, genuine tunes that stick around in the listener's memory.

Adding variety to the album's sonic palette, "On the Surface" explores electronic textures and driving rhythms, creating an enigmatic atmosphere. "A Way Out" is a sorrowful ode to get away and flexibility that includes a stirring violin and piano plan by Stuart Gordon, while the album comes to a close with the haunting and reflective "Tango for One".

Reception and Legacy
Upon its release, "Out of Water" got positive reviews and is thought about by lots of fans and critics to be a vital part of Peter Hammill's solo discography. The reflective nature of the album, combined with its powerful tunes and plans, showed that Hammill continued to be a compelling and ingenious songwriter, even after 20 years in the music market.

Today, "Out of Water" continues to be a fan favorite in Hammill's catalog and has received numerous reissues and remasters throughout the years. The album stands as a testimony to Hammill's flexibility as a musician and his steady dedication to developing deeply individual, expressive, and mentally resonant music.