Cover of King Crimson In the Court of the Crimson King
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For fans of king crimson, lovers of progressive rock, classic rock enthusiasts, and readers interested in music history and album reviews.
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THE REVIEW

If "SGT. PEPPER" had given a jolt, "In the Court" was the definitive shove to open the door of progressive, an almost seismic movement that defined boundaries that were still unknown or almost at that time. An absurd, grandiloquent, extraordinary album that could have been conceived yesterday and not in the distant 1969. The lyrics that speak of disappointment, apocalypse, theories that not even Nostradamus in his vision of the future could trace, leave us breathless. Better defining the schizoid man of the twenty-first century could not be done.

Musically speaking, the album is incredible, from the title track, through the already mentioned "Schizoid Man", from "Moonchild" to "Epitaph" until the unparalleled beauty of "I Talk to the Wind" where the interplay between Giles' drums and the sweet sound of the flute gently cradles us even though, as the lyrics say: I talk to the wind and my words are carried away, I talk to the wind but the wind does not hear, the wind "cannot hear."

To be listened to and listened to again endlessly.

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Summary by Bot

King Crimson's 'In the Court of the Crimson King' delivers a seismic shift in progressive rock with grandiose music and profound lyrics. The album remains fresh despite its 1969 release, exploring themes of disappointment and apocalypse. Standout tracks like 'Schizoid Man' and 'I Talk to the Wind' showcase impressive musicianship. This album is essential listening for fans of complex, thoughtful rock music.

Tracklist Videos

01   21st Century Schizoid Man (including Mirrors) (07:24)

02   I Talk to the Wind (06:05)

03   Epitaph (including March for No Reason and Tomorrow and Tomorrow) (08:47)

04   Moonchild (including The Dream and The Illusion) (12:12)

05   The Court of the Crimson King (including The Return of the Fire Witch and The Dance of the Puppets) (09:22)

King Crimson

King Crimson is an English progressive rock band formed by Robert Fripp in 1968. The group is known for seminal late-1960s/1970s albums, frequent lineup changes, and a long-lasting influence on progressive, art and experimental rock.
74 Reviews

Other reviews

By zaireeka

 If you want to experience a 1000-year time jump, start this album and let it take you there.

 The album can evoke a sinister or 'sick' impression, supported by its apocalyptic tones and striking cover art.


By joe strummer

 "21st Century Schizoid Man" remains an epoch-making track, a sharp attack on modernity.

 This album will remain in history as an excellent philosopher-musical work.


By paloz

 Just the cover alone is terrifying, the face of the man screaming face to face with the future listener is shocking.

 ESSENTIAL Album.


By tuisampa

 It’s almost as if you can hear the scream of the schizoid man... the cover is worth the cost.

 ‘In the Court of the Crimson King’ will always remain a microcosm unto itself, a manifesto of Progressive.


By Miki Page

 "King Crimson is a group that behaves like an organism. It works on three levels: the head, an intellectual expression; the heart, an emotional expression; and the hips, a physical expression."

 "One of the most visible (or audible...) innovations is the use of the mellotron, a kind of proto-synthesizer that electronically reproduces sounds similar to strings and choirs."


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