IN THE COURT OF THE CRIMSON KING

The album that started it all for me, introducing my fragile little mind to progressive rock and complex music in general. It took me ten listens to get past the menacing jazziness of the opening mayhem "Schizoid Man", probably the heaviest track ever written back in 1969, and if that's not enough the beauty of "I Talk to the Wind" caught me completely by surprise. Still two of my favorite songs ever, though the majestic quality of the title track is hard to pass by and pretty much defined progressive rock for years to come. The musicianship is brilliant and being a drummer myself I can't praise Michael Giles good enough as he provides some of the most melodic and creative rock drumming I've ever heard, being essentialy a jazz drummer but using the kit for the best effect possible. The last ten minutes of "Moonchild" might put people off but they can still enjoy the brilliant first part which is one of KC's most beautiful moments on tape. Not much else to say, this was and still is one of the most essential prog rock albums ever made and essential in every way possible. Not only for prog fans!

PS - The reason I ever got this album was because of the hilarious cover art. Best choice I ever did!