BRAIN SALAD SURGERY

When I first got this album (just before Xmas 1973) I was initially disappointed, as I didn't feel it was as good as the previous 4 albums and its best track (Karn Evil 9) was split over each side of vinyl. Years later any lasting disappointments are countered by digital recording, allowing selective playback, without fear of ruining your precious vinyl.

These days I tend to listen to music in MP3 format from my computer, my walkman or in my car and the tracks that I've transferred to MP3 from the CD are:

Toccata, Still...You Turn Me On, Karn Evil 9, Brain Salad Surgery and When The Apple Blossoms Bloom In The Windmills Of Your Mind.

In my opinion, this is what should've been on the original vinyl, and would've made me very happy back in '73, although Karn Evil 9 still wouldn't fit on one side of vinyl. On the basis of this track listing, I have to give it the full 5 stars. Come to think of it, the album could have been released with just Karn Evil 9 and it would still be fantastic.

Not heard any ELP and want to know what all the fuss is about? Listen to this album and you'll soon find out. You'll also find out why Benny the Bouncer didn't make my playlist! I don't particularly like Jerusalem, but it isn't as awful as Benny the Bouncer.

Just one down side to the digital age, the original vinyl album sleeve is far better than what you get with a CD. Incidentally, has anyone seen the uncensored version of the cover?