LIZARD

Speaking plainly, this is the best non-Bruford album in KC's catalog. This came right after the slightly disappointing In the Wake..., which many felt was a lesser quality version of the original gem ITCOTCK. That being said, this represented a stark change for the band, in what I consider their most unique release to date, merely because there is not another record that sounds quite like it. Rather than being edgy, and off-the-wall or having sweeping symphonic passages, this album presents itself in a much more humble and jazzy manner than any other output by the band.

The best vocals here come from guest Anderson, as I am not too much a fan of Haskell, who really lacked the prowess and insanity of Greg Lake. The opener is one of my favorite Crimson tunes, and I most closely assimilate it with 21st Century..., because of the compactness of the song (under 7 minutes but seeming as if epic in stature) and excellent ryhthms provided. Then there's Lizard, the epic before epics were born, and surprisingly it get's little credit when standing next to the CTTE's, Supper's Ready's, and TAAB's of the like. No, it's perhaps not quite as polished as other epic tracks, and there is some rambling bits that appear to head in no direction, but most of the song is quite enjoyable, and if nothing else, Yes fans can be pleased by Anderson's vocals in the beginning of the song.

Overall a very appealing record, and one that challenges us through every movement. It is a very rewarding experience, but ultimately I wouldn't get this till one has become fully adapted to the style of KC. This was Fripp's finest achievement until his grand opus of Larks Tongues in Aspic.

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