
Album Cover Courtesy of Warner Music
Rhythm Reviews The Philosophy behind Pink Floyd's 'Animals'
Pink Floyd's "Animals" is a philosophical exploration wrapped in a mesmerizing musical foreground.
20 February 2025
Released in 1977, amidst a backdrop of social and political turmoil, the album serves as a poignant reflection on society, delving into themes of greed, power, and alienation.
At the heart of "Animals" lies its profound philosophical depth, as Pink Floyd uses the allegorical framework of animal archetypes to examine the flaws and follies of society. Each track serves as a meditation on different aspects of human behaviour, inviting listeners to dissect the implications of their actions and values.
The album opens with "Pigs on the Wing (Part 1)," an acoustic song that sets the tone. From there, we are plunged into the dark, dystopian world of "Dogs," a lyrical genius that explores the corrosive effects of ambition and greed. With its hypnotic guitar solos, "Dogs" serves as a chilling indictment of unchecked capitalism and the dehumanising pursuit of wealth.
Next comes "Pigs (Three Different Ones)," a critique of hypocrisy and corruption in high places. Through biting satire and searing guitar riffs, Pink Floyd skewers the self-serving elites who manipulate and exploit the masses for their gain. The song's blistering crescendo serves as a cathartic release of pent-up frustration and anger, a rallying cry for justice in the face of oppression.
Finally, we arrive at "Sheep," a hypnotic descent into madness and conformity. Against a backdrop of smooth rhythms and eerie synthesizers, Pink Floyd explores the dangers of blindly following authority and surrendering one's individuality.
Even today, Pink Floyd's "Animals" stands as a masterful album. Through its evocative imagery and powerful storytelling, the album invites listeners to reflect on the nature of power, identity, and society as a whole.