IN THE WAKE OF POSEIDON

Ok, so McDonald and Giles leave the band to form their own, but Giles still contributes to this recording, while Lake also leaves to join Emerson and Palmer, but he also contributes his vocals to this record. Added are session players Collins, Haskell and Tippet. As far as the music goes, it is very similar to "In The Court Of the Crimson King". I guess if that formula worked once they figured they would try it again. Well the results are not the best, as this is a pale comparison. Having said that, I would also say this is a good record.

It is kind of interesting that they use the "Peace" songs at the start, middle and end of this record. Like in later years with the theme that runs through "The Power To Believe" album. The three "Peace" songs add up to less than 3 minutes of peaceful music. "Pictures Of A City" reminded me so much of "21st Century Schizoid Man" and I don't think you'll hear Greg Lake sing any more aggressive then he does on this song. The drumming is excellent and also the sax. But check out the guitar of Mr.Fripp 4 minutes in.

"Cadence And Cascade" is an acoustic song with light drums, piano and flute with Gordon Haskell singing. "In The Wake Of Poseidon" opens with mellotron and drums. Awesome intro ! This is a slow paced song with incredible vocals from Mr.Lake. And in my opinion the best song by far on this album. "Cat Food" has some crazy piano and is a silly song that reminds me of THE GUESS WHO for some reason. Not a fan. "The Devil's Triangle" is a mellotron feast ! It gets a little experimental later on and I like it a lot.

For me this album is a huge drop off in quality when compared to the debut so, 3.5 stars for this one.