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Artist
Van der Graaf Generator
12+ albums
Progressive rockart rockclassic rockProgressiverock
about
Van der Graaf Generator are an English progressive rock band formed in 1967 in Manchester by Peter Hammill and Chris Judge Smith. They were the first act signed by Charisma Records. Although the band did not achieve significant commercial success in the United Kingdom, they became popular in Italy during the 1970s. The band reformed in 2005 and continue to be active with a line-up of Hammill, organist Hugh Banton, and drummer Guy Evans. The group originated at the University of Manchester but relocated to London to pursue a professional career. Their early years saw several line-up changes, including a brief split in 1969. After reforming, they found minor success with "The Least We Can Do Is Wave to Each Other" in 1970, and subsequently stabilised around Hammill, Banton, Evans, and saxophonist David Jackson. This line-up achieved commercial success in Italy with "Pawn Hearts" in 1971. Following intensive tours, the band disbanded in 1972 but reunited in 1975, releasing "Godbluff" and touring Italy again before a line-up change and shortened name to Van der Graaf. The group disbanded again in 1978. They reunited at the Royal Festival Hall in 2005 and have since performed and recorded as a trio alongside Hammill's solo career. Van der Graaf Generator's albums are noted for their darker lyrical and musical themes compared to other progressive rock bands, often featuring organ and multiple saxophones rather than guitar solos. Hammill is the primary songwriter, drawing inspirat
