Representing something of a shift in direction from the first two King Crimson releases, with an all-new line-up, Lizard captures the emergence of Robert Fripp as the sole composer for the group. Boasting an impressive cast of guest players, the third studio album presents a distinctive and ambitious distillation of rock, jazz and quasi-classical music settings wherein scorching guitar, squalling brass and apocalyptic mellotron are marshaled to dramatic effect. Stand out tracks include Cirkus, The Peacock’s Tale and the astonishing Fripp guitar solo, Prince Rupert’s Lament. Featuring the virtuoso piano playing of Keith Tippett and a guest vocal from Yes’ Jon Anderson, with its grandiose clash of styles, free-form improvisation and meticulously orchestrated arrangements, Lizard stands out as both an unsettling and remarkable album.
Representing something of a shift in direction from the first two King Crimson releases, with an all-new line-up, Lizard captures the emergence of Robert Fripp as the sole composer for the group. Boasting an impressive cast of guest players, the third studio album presents a distinctive and ambitious distillation of rock, jazz and quasi-classical m...
Peter Sinfield wrote lyrics for the first four Crimso albums. Greg Lake sang on the first two. Sometimes, I imagine how "Formentera lady" or the title track from Islands would have sounded with Greg's voice. However, the songs on Lizard don't make me feel like that - definitely there's something unique on this material! My favourites are "Cirkus" and the title suite; and the latter is so thrilling that it doesn't feel like it lasts for 20+ minutes. A great album, though not the best point of ent...
Peter Sinfield wrote lyrics for the first four Crimso albums. Greg Lake sang on the first two. Sometimes, I imagine how "Formentera lady" or the title track from Islands would have sounded with Greg's voice. However, the songs on Lizard don't make me feel like that - definitely there's something unique on this material! My favourites are "Cirkus" and the title suite; and the latter is so thrilling that it doesn't feel like it lasts for 20+ minutes. A great album, though not the best point of entry for a new listener, ehehehe.