IN THE COURT OF THE CRIMSON KING

Most great bands from this period had blues-based influences but King Crimson stood out from the rest by stripping that typical sound away and combining rock with jazz and classical symphonic elements. That is one major factor that made this release one of the most influential progressive rock albums ever.

The guitar sound is not always the prominent instrument. In fact there is only one guitar solo on the opening "21st Century Schizoid Man" which is jazz-rock fusion and a great piece. It is the most aggressive track that gives way to something delicate and beautiful. "I Talk To The Wind" has some gorgeous flute work and fragile arrangements.

The mellotron-laced, symphonic "Epitaph" is very atmospheric and mythical. Greg Lake's vocals are really striking and full of emotion. The textures on "In The Court Of The Crimson King" are just as majestic and passionate. "Moodchild" is very soft and slightly chilling with some soft percussion. The doodling at the end goes on a bit too long which would usually mean the loss of at least half a star from the overall rating. But with this album I will make an exception because the rest of the music is very special. There is a kind of presence that draws you in. I can't quite describe it. It's warm as well as touching, although also dark and melancholic. For me it's a masterpiece. 5 stars.