Karn Evil 9 - Emerson Lake And Palmer - Progressive Rock Music Forum

First impression part one for me, though I can't agree that any of the parts contain 'the greatest keyboard playing in rock history' - fine playing indeed, but let's not get silly about this.

Third impression, because the music has such a wonderful, powerful conclusion.

Absolutely amazing story telling music.

The two last parts are among the most beautiful masterpieces of Emerson, Lake & Palmer

Part 1 of the First Impression, always sucks me in everytime

MY IDOLS

I love all of it but if forced to choose would probably opt for the acoustic 2nd Impression as it gives us a glimpse into Keith's abiding inspirations 'up close and in the raw' i.e. jazz, classical, boogie woogie, latin (many of Emerson's left hand ostinatos have a subtle South American feel) horror movie suspense and slapstick silent movie kitsch. Shorn of the habitual Hammond and Moog, ELP's music displayed a tongue in cheek lightness and shade that their more bombastic creations sometimes could be accused of lacking. (Subtlety was never an abiding concern in their electronic output)

Funny thing is, the 2nd Impression is fuelled almost entirely from melodic themes and fragments from the subsequent 3rd Impression (which makes me think it was composed after the final part of the suite?)

BTW the original intention hatched by Keith and Carl was to create an acoustic adaptation of Ginastera's Tocatta (piano, bass and drums) but this was shelved. I'd love to have heard a work in progress version of that critter (as much as I adore the electronic incarnation)

Edited by ExittheLemming - September 08 2011 at 03:51

thehallway wrote:

Surprised that people like the Star-trek sounding 3rd Impression.

.

I am a little surprised as well. I thought it was just me that liked it!

Second Impression for me as well.

I've always loved 1:1 the most but have to say that lately it's the 3rd Impression that's been my favourite.

Over the years 1:1 has to get the vote.

Third Impression for sure. It's the strongest section of the entire album IMHO.

The Wrinkler wrote:

Second Impression! I love that ELP symphonic jazz sound. Cool

Ditto for me.

Dig me...But don't...Bury me
I'm running still, I shall until, one day, I hope that I'll arrive
Warning: Listening to jazz excessively can cause a laxative effect.

Poll Question: Which Impression is your favourite?
Poll Choice	Votes	Poll Statistics
First Impression, Part 1	24	[34.78%]
First Impression, Part 2	3	[4.35%]
Second Impression	19	[27.54%]
Third Impression	23	[33.33%]
You can not vote in this poll