IN THE COURT OF THE CRIMSON KING

One big STAR for Track 1: 21st Century Schizoid Man

If I ever get my hands on a time machine (that works), I'm going back to 1969 to see the look on people's faces when they first put the needle to this vinyl. Growing up in the metal era has de-sensitized me, but for those folks who were accustomed to the music of the 60s, this had to be one of the most shocking beginnings of a record. Blaring guitars, distorted vocals/screams along with crushing drums and bass licks are how King Crimson introduced itself to the world and the world has never been the same. This song is a treat to listen to especially when you consider the historical context of this album's release. I might actually prefer this song without the distorted vocals, but I do acknowledge that the distortion does give this song more of an edge. Everything else about this frenetic piece of music is great, in my opinion. Interestingly enough, I did not care much for this song the first twenty times I listened to it. It took a while for me to digest it and really enjoy all that it has to offer.

One big STAR for Track 2: I Talk To The Wind

Unlike the first track, I had no trouble instantly liking this beautiful song. As edgy as "Schizoid Man" was, this song is soft and soothing and will instantly relax you as this song gently grabs you by the hand to draw you into the King's Court. The one- two punch that these first two songs provide is similar to the effect of Good Cop/Bad Cop. And now King Crimson has you right where they want you.

One big STAR for Track 3: Epitaph

This is my favorite song on the album. Whatever fears you may have had about the Red King are gone and you are overcome by a powerful force that is leading you deeper into the Court. "Epitaph" swirls and penetrates the mind with a wonderful combination of music led by Fripp, McDonald, Giles and Lake as Peter Sinfield's biting lyrics subtly probe your conscience. "Confusion...will be my epitaph!"

No stars for Track 4: Moonchild

Why ruin the magic? Why? Like so many others who have reviewed this album before me, I fall into the category of complete and utter bafflement at the direction that this song takes. I know many appreciate the extended jam that seems to go nowhere, but I'm not one of them. If this song would have been cut short, I would have enthusiastically given this album five stars. But as it is, I just don't care for this song and find it to be a significant blemish on an otherwise outstanding album. I guess there are some very weird things going on there in the Crimson King's Court.

One big STAR for Track 5: The Court of the Crimson King

As is fitting, the journey that this album takes you on ends up in the Court and this song is a great conclusion to the album. This track is buffeted by a great melody and haunting singing by Greg Lake.

For those of you who have not yet had the pleasure of giving this album a taste, I must caution you-there is a heavy dose of mellotron used throughout this album. If you don't care for the 'tron, you may have trouble liking this. On the other hand, if you find the mellotron pleasing, you will love this record!

Share this KING CRIMSON review

Social review comments () BETA

---

---

Review related links

• Send comments to Lofcaudio
• Report this review (#75804)
• Buy KING CRIMSON music online with PA partners
• Show all KING CRIMSON MP3/Stream
• Go to KING CRIMSON page for videos, full discography with ratings, reviews and much more
• Go to In the Court of the Crimson King page for more details, where to buy and ratings/reviews
• Search the Forum for KING CRIMSON related discussions