Album: Wouldn't You Miss Me? The Best of Syd Barrett

Introduction
"Wouldn't You Miss Me? The Very Best of Syd Barrett" is a collection album released in 2001, showcasing the very best work of English singer-songwriter and musician Syd Barrett. Commemorated as an establishing member of Pink Floyd, Barrett's solo profession was brief yet impactful, covering just 2 studio albums: "The Madcap Laughs" (1970) and "Barrett" (1970). This collection combines some of his most cherished and prominent tracks, along with formerly unreleased material. Barrett's special blend of psych-rock, folk, and experimental music garnered him a devoted following and sealed his status as a cult figure in the history of rock music.

Background
After his departure from Pink Floyd in 1968, Syd Barrett withdrew from the general public eye and faced numerous battles, including deteriorating mental health and an ever-increasing aversion to fame. Despite these obstacles, Barrett managed to release 2 studio albums, on which he showed his flair for non-traditional song structures, creative wordplay, and whimsical plans.

The compilation "Wouldn't You Miss Me? The Best of Syd Barrett" was curated to admire Barrett's significant effect as an artist and to introduce new generations to his work. The album includes tracks from his solo effort, along with a handful of Pink Floyd hits.

Track Listing
The album comprises eighteen tracks, which cover the totality of Barrett's profession, both as a solo artist and as a member of Pink Floyd. Some of the noteworthy tracks on the album include:

1. "Octopus" - A standout track from his very first solo album, "The Madcap Laughs", "Octopus" showcases Barrett's remarkable, ridiculous wordplay and diverse arrangements.
2. "Jugband Blues" - One of Barrett's final contributions to Pink Floyd, this song is a heart-wrenching reflection of his alienation from the band and his battles with mental health.
3. "Matilda Mother" - This early Pink Floyd classic exhibits the band's psychedelic leanings and hints at the instructions they would take in future albums.
4. "No Good Trying" - Full of odd time signatures and disjointed areas, this track is a prime example of the disorderly yet endearing quality of Barrett's music.
5. "Baby Lemonade" - Possibly the most accessible and catchy tune from Barrett's solo efforts, "Baby Lemonade" remains a fan favorite.

New Material
The compilation features the previously unreleased track "Bob Dylan Blues", which was taped during the 1969 sessions for "Barrett". The track is a lively tribute to the singer-songwriter and Barrett's own musings on popularity and artistic expression. "Bob Dylan Blues" is an unusual glance into a more spontaneous and unpolished side of Barrett's work, and its inclusion added enjoyment for fans and collectors.

The Legacy of Syd Barrett
Despite his short-lived career as an artist, Syd Barrett's talent and impact have not been forgotten. The release of "Wouldn't You Miss Me? The Best of Syd Barrett" works as a testament to the indelible mark he left on the world of rock music. The compilation showcases his distinctive songwriting and the raw feeling recorded in his performances.

Honoring his contributions as a solo artist and as an establishing member of Pink Floyd, the album transports a brand-new generation of listeners into Barrett's whimsical and terrible world. The perseverance of interest in and appreciation for Syd Barrett's work highlights his long-lasting influence on the history of rock music and the extremely idea of what it means to be an artist.