LIZARD

"Lizard" evokes fantastic medieval sceneries as if it were a long fable.

The third album by King Crimson is too many times underrated. "Lizard" was and still is one of the most overlooked albums released by the band, being once again victim of negative comparisons with the previous KC works.

"Lizard" happens to be one unique album, whether you like it or not: it is a sort of modest and humble release, where, I have to admit, there is nothing new brought to the table. However, it is a new direction for the band itself: the music is jazzier than ever, with more sax here than any release of theirs, even though ironically it is one of the most melodic and accessible LP's from the band. There are still plenty of mellotron moments, which are always extremely either melancholy or mysterious, and it definitely still is a Progressive album, thanks also to other instruments such as flutes and a typical Progressive sound overall.

The atmospheres the band brings are almost magical and reminiscent of a fairy tale, of medieval times, of great castles, battles, fair ladies, and fantastic monsters. This setting is very credible at times, and truly brings you amidst these worlds. This is probably the best thing this album has going for, because, like it was mentioned, the melodies and the music itself in general are pretty standard for the genre, not being anything particularly innovating.

The first side of the album has four songs: a melancholy and mysterious, almost menacing at times piece (the mellotron-driven opener "Cirkus"), the much more light and cheerful duo "Indoor Games", the better one, and "Happy Family". The really pleasant acoustic interlude "Lady In The Water" is also worth mentioning. The heart of the album however lies in the second side, consisting solely of a more than twenty minute suite, the title track, which, even though not being at all as convincing and spectacular as other epics such as "Supper's Ready", "Close To The Edge" or "A Plague Of Lighthouse Keepers", it has some spectacular and haunting moments here and there that very effectively evoke those fantastic images.

"Lizard" is an experience that is essential for any King Crimson fan, and is always too underrated. The atmospheres and feelings of the album are so vivid and magical, despite not having amazing, groundbreaking melodies, and it's a shame that people don't recognize it.

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