TARKUS

Second ELP album isn't as good as the first was. First album part is all "Tarcus" medley - long 7-pieces composition in ELP classic tradition. It means, based on keyboards sound with some piano and bombastic drumming. Being a best album part, this composition for me isn't all bad, but is too cold and uninspired. And often too long.

Another LP side is filled by six short and more simple and rhythmic compositions. Still nice in some instrumental places, they are all r'n'r, jazz or even rag-time based,sometimes King Crimson alike sounding. Common sound in general and Lake's vocal in particular is more energetic,even aggresive, but it isn't for band's good.

Still strong album, but step back from great debut.