Obvious, in my opinion, is an extrodinarily succesful debut album. It features a variety of styles in seven well produced and carefully arranged compositions, two of which, Angel and Laika, I consider superior pieces of songwriting. Although the sales pitch refers to fans of Pink Floyd, the Floydian influences are not always equally clear. Best noticed is the Gilmouresque guitar play in parts of Flimflam Man and Motherless Child and the first track, Angel has a structure not unlike some Floyd material. But it would be a mistake to judge this album on these references. Obvious has such strenghts that a connection to Pink Floyd is unnecessary in recommending it.
Conclusion: 9- out of 10.