Reviews (page 5 of 13)
Where it might have all begin for the progressive genre. I'm not a big fan of KC's entire discography, but this one is quite the masterpiece. Classical music for hippies.
One of my all time favorite. Prog Masterpiece.
This might be one of the most important album in my musical evolution and journey. I was 15 or 16 years old the first time I heard it. With this album, I discovered a whole other way to play drum. I learned that a strong listening within the musicians can be a game changer for a jam part or even for a written part. I found that an album artwork can be weirdly fascinating. I also gave a more important attention to abstract lyrics and poetry. And most of all, it was my introduction to my favorite instrument ever : the mellotron. I remember the first time I listened to this album, I have rarely felt something so strong on the first try. 5 stars is not enough.
One description I’ve often seen of this album is that it sounds like it could’ve been released today. Certainly, there are elements that betray it being a product of the 60s, but it’s no mean feat to still sound fresh more than 50 years on. One reason for this is probably the fact that prog bands are using it as a reference point even to this day. The more relevant reason, however, which is common with every album that transcends time and genre, is great songwriting. And every song on here is a classic, never quite replicated by another band since except maybe King Crimson themselves. This is all without mentioning the massive musical talent within the band: Greg Lake steals the show with his powerful voice, not to overshadow his nimble bass playing providing great counterpoint to the rest of the music. Robert Fripp, who should need no introduction, takes a more subdued role, with hints of his unique melodic approach present in the guitar solos/improvisation. Michael Giles provides a stunning performance on drums, showing off his impressive chops not just in the bombastic moments but also the quiet ones. Not least of all is Ian McDonald, showing faultless multi-instrumental prowess on reeds, woodwinds and keys while also being the principal songwriter. The lyrical contribution of Peter Sinfield also deserve mention, illustrating wondrous fantasy worlds alongside rough depictions of war, solitude and the human condition. This line-up of King Crimson was not to last, as Ian McDonald and Greg Lake would leave the group before the release of their next album less than a year later, with Fripp taking over as band leader and principal writer from then on (even the artist behind the iconic cover art, Barry Godber, would tragically pass away a few months after the albums release at the age of 24). King Crimson then went on to experiment wildly with their style for the rest of their career, leaving behind perhaps the greatest debut album of all time. P.S. The flaw of the album is not Moonchild. That song is wonderful all the way through. The true flaw is the anti-climactic fake out ending of The Court Of The Crimson King. Why they decided to put that one last instead of using the perfect ending that precedes it I will never understand.
even in spite of the jazz influences and instrumental breaks that create an effortlessly cool, meandering tempo, In The Court of The Crimson King, King Crimson’s seminal debut that practically changed the face of progressive rock, is a bubbling pot of endless urgency that quietly brews underneath the skin of each song, so that by the time the album comes to an end, the slow walk has become a full blown sprint. it does make sense that jazz and rock — ripped from the same cloth in how they both yield to unexpected twists and turns, and yet are wholly different in pace and structure — would be sonically matrimonial, but King Crimson refuses to exist in the equilibrium. each song sounds as though their influences are clashing; their key elements here are flipped, contrasted, and then juxtaposed, designed to be at war with each other. and like an actual battle, there is no knowing where any of this songs are headed. this is most prevalent on opener “21st Century Schizoid Man”, where all sense of musical predictability is thrown out the window, and every song that follows it is just as burdened with a similar volatility: they change time signatures with almost no sense of reason; random pauses and brief silences appear out of nowhere in the middle of songs; they introduce instrumental breaks when the songs begin to climax (the flute solo in the middle of the title track is some of the most sublime); and then build frantic polyrhythmic drum sections that grate and grind. what results is a carefully orchestrated battlefield where chaos rules supreme, and the only casualties are those left playing catch up to King Crimson’s madness.
9/10 I always forget about this album and then every time I listen to it I’m like. What have I been doing. It’s great, cool variety of sounds and styles but each one of them is great
10/10. Yeah, I really liked this. Very melodramatic and complex. Only downside is it makes me think of that "Prog Rock? More like Frog Cock" meme I had described to me once
The blueprint for so much prog to come. This listen I was struck by how the more ambient parts sounded so similar to Echoes. 9/10
This is easily one of my favourites albums not only from rock history, but from music history in general. I listened to all of King Crimson's discography, and while it is full of perfect albums, I still think that no one could surpass the greatness of their debut. Everything about this record is just on point: the lyrics, the guitar, the orchestral and jazz arrangements, the percussion, Greg Lake's theatrical vocals... "21st Century Schizoid Man", despite having limited lyrics, still remains as one of the most brutal and aggressive anti-war songs, and so does "Epitaph". "I Talk To The Wind" and "The Court of The Crimson King" still give me the same chills that I got the first time that I listened to them. Even "Moonchild", the weakest track on the album, is still a very solid song. If you liked this album, I heavily recommend checking out the rest ofKing Crimson's huge discography. Seriously, if you thought this album was insane, believe me when I tell you that the rest of their music becomes even more batshit crazy as they evolve. Despite never achieving mainstream success, this band managed to have a huge influence and/pr be a pioneer in genres such as prog rock, prog metal, avant-garde metal, jazz rock, experimental rock, prog folk, math rock, industrial, industrial rock/metal, post-progressive and even perhaps new wave (looking at you, 80s albums...) and post-rock (looking at you "Starless"...). If you like any band of these genres, their band members probably listened to King Crimson. Or perhaps they listened to Rush instead. Or maybe both...
This is an incredible album, especially taking into consideration when it was released. In 1969 we were still listening to Pop am radio songs. FM was still considered "underground" radio. This was so different than other albums being released. Like Abbey Road, Tommy, let it bleed; songs like honky-tonk woman, crimson and clover, build me up Buttercup; music was really starting to change in 1969. I discovered this album around 1971. That was when I was starting to listen to Grand Funk and Deep Purple and other things besides the a.m. radio Pop hits. Definitely the best album cover of all time in my opinion.
Awesome album.
This has been one of my favorite albums of all time, for a long time. It was a pleasure to listen to it straight through again.
Великолепный альбом, в котором замечательно всё. Изощрённый инструментал, который иногда перекликается с текстом, прекрасный вокал и трогательно-суровые тексты тянут за душу с каждым прослушиванием каждый раз, как в первый. Это альбом нужно прочувствовать каждому.
"In the Court of the Crimson King" is the debut album by English rock band King Crimson and considered one of the earliest and most influential albums in the progressive (prog) rock genre. It is and was the only album with all orginal members including Grebg Lake (lead vocals, bass), Robert Fripp (guitars), Ian McDonald (woodwinds, piano, mellotron, organ, vibraphone), Michael Giles (drums, percussion) and Peter Sinfield (lyricist, illumination). They all had major roles and all produced this album. There have been various remixes and reissues. Pitchfork described this music as a hybrid of menacing rock, classical sophisticated, pastoral pyschedelia and free-jazz mania. I'll say, quite the journey. You can really go down the research rabbit hole on this one with the comparisons to Roman Emperor Frederick II and the content and art. I'd need at least a month to adequately take in. Side one or the below/earth/present side begins with "21st Century Schizoid Man." The sound of air which then kicks into a big music sound. Proto-metal riffs, jazz rock drums, the alto sax and Greg Lake's distorted lyrics. A guitar solo and a totally musical chaotic ending. Images of burning politicians/starving children and I think a commentary on the destruction of the Vietnam War and contradictory societal moral values. A monster of an opening song. "I Talk to the Wind" slows things down. Gentler vocals by Lake. A dominat flute. An outsider/elder talking (to the wind) and no one is listening. A dramatic start to "Epitaph" which then slows down going softer and then builds with the music and emotion. The mellotron. A Cold War commentary. Many think a transition song connecting the first and second sides. "Moonchild" kicks-off side two or the above/metaphysical past side. The first part is a ballad and the kicks in to a trippy space jam. Jazzy. Pyschedelic. Chill. Yeah! Abstract images with the moon as a center piece. The album ends with their single "In the Court of the Crimson King." Very dramatic. The mellotron riff. Now we're talking about the sun. References to colors, jesters, queens...very medieval. About death? A similar chaotic/dramatic ending just as the album starts. There can be a lot here in this album if you want to keep digging. The artistry and music alone is great without trying to figure out the meaning. An epic album and still sounding great, every bit its masterpiece reputation.
Prog album that deserves multiple listens
10/10
Ah, yes the sound of blaring horns. Seriously though, one of the most progressive albums of all time (through my minuscule knowledge). It harsh, it's loud, and it's complex. but that's what it makes it great. The harshness of it is what makes the album amazing, a true originator of prog metal. (i.e. 21st Century Schizoid Man) Well, actually part of it is beautiful. Strange wording. Still, one of the greatest albums of all time.
I read a lot of good things about this album but I have never got to listen to the album until now. I now understand why people hype this record as one of the greatest. It has beautiful production, soulful vocals and excellent instrumentation. For me, I love the drumming by Michael Giles throughout the whole album. That guy is a fucking machine. I also love how Ian McDonald adds power to songs with his saxophone on 21st Century Schizoid Man while setting the mood and feel with the woodwind on "I Talk to the Wind" and "Moonchild".
damn i love this
A classic
Wouldn’t change a note
Epic. I remember the first time I heard "In The Court of the Crimson King" many years ago. It was unlike any other music I had heard before. It's not a surprise to find how influential this album has become. I think prog rock has a tendency to become too experimental and become an exercise in musicianship rather than just being good music, but I think that King Crimson hit the nail on the head with this one. 5/5
Majestic genius. Opened the door for the most magical and fantastical genre of all time: prog rock. A fusion of high art with rock music, taking inspiration from classical, jazz, psychedilia, and rock n roll. I love so much about prog: its themes, its complexity, the unorthodox musical forms, the high degree of technical skill involved, the long tracks that each feel like self-contained journeys, and so on. Prog musicians in the early 70s reached incredible artistic heights; when was the last time a genre even AIMED that high, let alone reached it? Nobody strived for majesty like these guys did. Modern music feels empty and cheap in comparison to this. First track is just insanity. Robert Fripp is a twisted mad genius; anyone who knows anything about King Crimson knows that much. The drums are just outstanding for 1969. Everyone is playing at a high level on this track. Second track is serene and gorgeous, reminds me of halcyon days long since past. I feel like I'm in an enchanted forest meadow. The third track is apocalyptic and tragic: "The fate of all mankind, I see, is in the hands of fools." The Mellotron adds so much richness to the sound The first few minutes of the fourth track are hauntingly beautiful. Obviously there's too much noodling, but I at least like part of the ambient section, specifically the guitar-driven parts. In defense of the noodling, I would at least say that it perfectly primes you for the impact of that final track. The final track mesmerizes me. Its sounds are lush and overwhelming. The lyrics confuse and entrance me. It is almost too majestic to describe with words. It is otherworldly. It sounds like heaven and hell colliding.
A prog rock staple - something new around every corner.
This is a weird album. I loved it
Absolutely incredible, easy 10/10
Absolute classic
hell yes
Brilliant. Possibly the best prog rock album ever made
It’s like if a rock band tried to replicate classical pieces. I love me a good rock ballad, and this has 4 of em, with Moonchild being a bit of a breather/interlude. I love how cinematic and grand the instrumentals are, but the periodically fall away to just a single instrument. Very well put together and all around a fantastic time. 9/10
Excellent album and hidden gem. Deserves more listens
Did not realize King Crimson was this old! This album rules and was incredibly foundational for so much incredible prog music that came afterwards. Even if you don't like or haven't heard this, you know someone influenced by it, and likely even recognize the cover art! || I will acknowledge some unnecessary and potentially off-putting sections and interludes of sound between songs, but not apologize for them.
Insanely creative, sooo far ahead of its time
Epitaph made me cry. What a beautiful mournful song
love this album
In my college days this record was like holy artifact. Listening to it again now after so many years, it doesn't give me that same "spiritual experience" but it's still a landmark record that was/is insanely influential on many of my favorite artists.
The album that got me into progressive rock. I heard it when visiting Philadelphia on a family-owned radio station that had DJs that played what they liked and not what they were told to play. The first few notes and I was hooked. Made sure I listened for the name of the band after it played. Totally blew me away.
One of the true prog rock masterpieces, brilliant album.
Для 1969 года это просто ВАУ.
Brilliant.
i talk to the wind is enough for five stars
It wasn't just the doves that flew out in Hyde Park on that fateful July day in 1969. With them went the blueprint of a genre that would come to define, for better or worse, the sounds coming from Britain in the ensuing decade that was pouring out of many aspiring bands that favored complex time signatures, ambitious concepts and grandiose statements. And, if it weren't for King Crimson and their epochal debut In the Court of the Crimson King, I surely believe that progressive rock wouldn't have had the headstart that it needed to produce the Yes's and Genesis's and Emerson, Lake and Palmer's of the world. Sure, those bands would arrive eventually but they would have Robert Fripp and his mad genius to thank for the heads up. Perhaps one of the all time greatest debuts to have an all time great opening track, it's incredible to think that we allowed one band (or one man) to have all that power. But we did and we're thankful for that. By the way, Godspeed Barry Godber and thank you for an immortal album cover. Never has a sleeve defined a sound so well.
<3
The first album with 5 stars! While it's not my favourite prog rock record. These guys were definitely ahead of their time. (Opening track is so good!)
best album cover ever
I think I wrote earlier that there is bad prog and good prog. There is also great prog (a rare occurrence). This is great prog and for me five stars is not enough. It is a towering achievement and I am not sure if the blend of rock, folk, classical and free jazz has been surpassed. It sounds progressive today, fifty plus years later. Even the album cover is one of the great ones, and an entire generation heard Crimson in the Kanye sample.
I was interested in prog rock in high school and had this album. It wasn't one of my favorite albums but did like it and thought the production sounded unique. I also ended up painting a copy of the cover. I think this is still a unique album and even the slower songs are great.
Day 100 and a classic album that I’ve never herd before that’s good!… The album starts with 21st century schizoid man and I have to say ( for the 60’s) it’s certainly one of the most unique songs I’ve ever herd. Love the fuzzed out vocals, and the extended instrumental in particular! (The only thing is when he yells “21st century schizoid man”; I annoyingly have the thought of Kanye West’s ego spreading over the song). It’s really odd though because the next song I talk to the wind removes the every bit of heaviest in favour of a baron psychedelic folk track it’s not a favourite but it’s still enjoyable. Ending side one is epitaph it’s such an epic, grand and powerful sounding tune that definitely never misses a beat. But then the instrumental of the song comes in a much slower section sounding like death marching through the song, honestly flawless! Side 2 track one and also the album’s penultimate track moonchild and and don’t get me wrong I like the song but the more silent bit in the middle where you can only hear little bits of sound is just too long really; but hey It’s prog what are you gonna expect. The court of the crimson king alone redeemed everything bad about moonchild as it’s probably in my top 3 album closers of all time now, so grand, so epic and ultra climactic, just perfection! Fine, only 4/5 songs were perfection but those songs make up for moonchild!
The moment when jamming while on LSD became highbrow art Classic album that is still great today
4.5
Intense. A cornerstone of prog rock. So many decades later, it still feels experimental. May have to see if a cover band tours--I would imagine this album is 100% better live.
Amazing drumming awesome opening track. Other songs also hold up. Amazing album.
Needed more than one listen to really appreciate.
Good Lord what have I gotten into.
Godlike
amazing
An album which when you hear it for the first time on a project such as this you wonder- how have I never decided to give this a listen? It’s pretty amazing- it takes you to some other place entirely, one of menacing atmosphere and foreboding. What possible influences could these guys have heard to produce this work of art, something that feels entirely new and challenging. And whilst you can, of course, point to jazz and classic and rock influences, nevertheless, you still feel as if you’re entering some realm, some kingdom that only emerged in front of you, just now. Terrifying and curious in equal measure. Outstanding.
Bom pra caralho
This one is a classic of progressive rock. 21st Schizoid Man is heavily Jazz influenced with quite some guitar noodling, which is a bit tedious. I Talk To the Wind is a sweeping 60's ballad dominated by a synth flute. Epitaph is the absolute high point of the album; it's such a strong and beautiful song, with great vocals by Greg Lake. Moonchild is the most experimental (and longest) song, with even more guitar noodling - I have to be in the mood for this one. Finally, The Court of the Crimson King is a classic in its own right, for me almost on par with Epitaph. All things considered, the highs on this album are incredibly high, while the lows are only somewhat so, but still interesting in their own right. I like this album quite a bit. 4.5/5
uou
Amazing vocals with no whiny or pompous quality of a glam rock star. Instrumentals breaks that does not intimidate but falls down like a snowflake on a quiet night. Short lyrics that is deep but not deep enough to be ironically self-indulgent. Here is a non-Floyd progrock album that legitimately blew my mind.
✊🏻👊🏻Killer record, prog and jazz and blues mixed. Crazy to think this was made in 1969, all these guys were geniuses at their craft in composing.
Really really really enjoyed this a lot!!
Absolutely mega album. A stunning mix of prog rock, jazz, and symphonic music that's just a groundbreaking delight
FIVE STARS An all-time classic and a personal favorite of mine. As is usually the case with those five-stars albums, I won't write a full-blown review about this particular record, because others have already written wonderful stuff about it and there's not much I can add that I feel could be relevant and interesting. It's just a gem. Go and listen to it a.s.a.p. Number of records left to review or just listen to: 933 Number of albums from the list I find relevant enough to be mandatory listens: 33 (including this one) Albums from the list I *might* include in mine later on: 18 Albums from the list I will certainly *not* include in mine (many others are more important to me): 17
This is a phenomenal accomplishment of an album, and it just feels right any time I listen to it
Awesome album, I’ve been aware of it but never actually listened to it before, super-glad I did. I enjoyed the first track, 21st Century Schizoid Man, but loved the other four, especially Epitaph and The Court Of The Crimson King. Due to it not being on Spotify I’ll have to pick it up on vinyl I think.
Amazing. Right out of the gate this album defined prog rock genre and set a very high bar for anything that would follow it. Overall great stuff.
This slammed. Really, really good.
Awesome shit
I loved it, I loved the influences and everything about it it was amazing.
Classic. Modern. Masterpiece.
Still a great album. I usually go for a later KC album and had forgotten how good this album was.
I don't listen to this kind of music as much as I used to, but I was happy to hear some King Crimson again after many years. Great album.
Pleasantly surprised by this
Absolute classic
One of the greatest albums of all time!
Favoritei várias músicas, não conhecia a banda, gostei muito das experimentações.
Having very well-known albums on this list goes against its purpose a bit; after all, the goal is to help people discover chapters in music history that they might otherwise be unaware of. But I can't complain about having a reason to listen to "In The Court Of The Crimson King" again. It deserves six stars, of course.
My first album. Still sounds amazing.
Epic. I now understand where the flaming lips got all their licks from.
Awesome Listen, I hadn't listen too it for a long while.
Prog at it's best
hey
Great album. Awesome exploration of sound
It's a classic, one of the best albums ever recorded
It's a classic, not sure what else to say.
21st century schizoid man - esquizo triparia máxima I talk to the wind - amei a transição de hospital psiquiátrico para flautinha estilo simon and garfunkel
Great cover! 20th Century Skizoid Man: fantastic song! Robert Fripp’s guitar playing is out standing! Some of the songs are too long. Typical progressive rock A good album. Four stars.
I love the overall haunting or creepy vibes the album gave off for me. There were certain songs on it as well that stood that to me specifically for that. It’s a great album and a lot of its songs will most definitely be getting on my playlists.
I DIDN'T KNOW "21ST CENTURY SCHIZOID MAN" IS THE KANYE SAMPLE!! That's so insane. But I really enjoyed this album (listened during Chest+Back gym session).
Even a genre as unutterably unpalatable as Prog has a classic lurking the closet, and here it is - great album, thank you for sharing RGP, 4 stars❤️❤️❤️❤️ Tom.
Very talented but songs are too lengthy for me and slow progressing, reminds me of ancient medieval times. What I would imagine the average monty python watcher to listen to
"I talk to the wind. My words are all carried away. I talk to the wind. The wind does not hear. The wind cannot hear." These lyrics still live in my head rent-free. I've listened to this album a few times before, and each time I find something new to appreciate. I will most likely listen to it again soon enough.
I really love some of it, but not all.
Hmmm almost off put by the artwork but turns out pretty good
<3
In the Court of the Crimson King has 3 really great songs and 2 really mid songs so it all kind of evens out
Voiam sa zic ca-mi place foarte mult albumul.Imi da vibe-ul unui oras citadin intr-o lume magica,as putea sa l asociez cu dark souls.Cand il ascultam ma gandeam la dark souls 2 dintr-un motiv sau altul .Imaginea vizuala e una mistica ,iar titlurile melodiilor ofera aceasta viziune.Totodata,sunetele experimentale de chitara si balade se imbina intr-un ansamblu complex .Cantece precum "Epitath"si "I talk to the wind" ofera o atmosfera nostalgica si placuta."21st Century Schizoid Man" si "The Court of the Crimson King" incalzesc lucrurile prin dinamica lor energica si placuta.Acum chiar inteleg de ce kanye west a dat sample la 21st Century Schizoid Man ,lowkey chiar e un banger .Dar e foarte popular ,adica si taica miu probabil stia de el.Cel mai putin mi a placut "Moonchild"mi s a parut plictisitoare .De asemenea,nu a avut nicio continuitate ,foarte lunga si foarte boring ,doar aruncau sunete din dreapta in stanga.Daca nu era melodia aia ,albumul primea un straight 5.
I knew half the album already. 21st csm and inkoftck are all time classics. Epitah deserves to be on that list too. What a beautiful song. The other two prevented this from being a 5 star album. I especially didn’t care for the free jazz bit. But all in all, great record
The 21st century schizoid man being the POWER kanye sample was epic. I talk to the wind was such a beautiful way to wind down my night. Dont judge an album by its cover!
Epic in the right circumstances 4.4
Really enjoyed the opener (those distorted vocals way ahead of their time) and closer (so powerful, one of my top soundtrack moments in Children of Men). Rest was decent, excellent drumming throughout. You could detect the influence to and from Floyd running throughout, so definably the more palatable side of the prog genre for me.
ik vond dit echt heel leuk despite de lengte van de liedjes !
mix of jazz and rock
This is the perfect album to go listening on the road. Sounds a lot like a soundtrack for a movie. Not quite my type but I respect what it is and what it means to people. I liked tracks: 21st Century Schizoid Man, Moonchild (my favorite) and The Court of the Crimson King.
this tickled my brain in a nice way
Slows down a little for my taste in the middle but bookended by some terrific, serpentine, technical wonders of songs. The be all end all KC for quite a few folk but I love the subsequent albums where they bare their teeth a bit more.
I love this album. The quintessential proto-prog rock masterpiece. I had to knock a star off because it gets too noodly in parts, I'm pretty sure the freeform widdly bit in the middle wasn't there when I've listened to it before
Enjoyed this album much more on the 3rd listen.
so robert fripp went “it’s prog time” and progged all over the place. yet i don't understand it. some parts are decent. 4/5
Crazy pull for a first aIbum. Luckily i even have it on vinyl already. I love the songs individually, but i do not understand the choice to have such a calm interlude in the middle of the album. I prefer Albums to be structured like the Hero's journey in terms of intensity.
KINGO CRIMSON!!!
This one is a true musical journey. There are so many crazy moments, both good and not so good. That kick in from moonchild to court of the crimson king hits like very few songs can. The flutes, clarinets, and xylophones add so much intrigue, even if the parts sound more like noodling than an actual song at times. I love this genre, I love this period of music. The freedom to be experimental and creative is unmatched. Overall, I found the piece as a whole to be enthralling and inventive, but not necessarily amazing songs. I think a high 4/5 and many more listens to digest are in my future.
Bonkers - the contrast between the first track and the rest is hilarious. I have a soft spot for the whole thing though.
LOVED this one! 4/5 only because the order of the songs. It started abruptly with the heavy guitar and volume of the schizoid man song, and in my morning fog, it was tough to all of a sudden vibe to. Then it mellowed out! And gave some beautiful melodies and lyrics, it had some neat segments with goofy and bizarre noises and such. It slowly built up the energy again through each song that by the time the radio version of schizoid man came in I was ready and excited for it and enjoyed it a lot more. The transition after the first song between the energy of the music was good and got me in the mood for the higher energy stuff. Fave songs: (A lot of em) I talk to the wind (both versions!) The court of the crimson king (ofc) Moonchild —— The rest of them were really good too! Epitaph was a vibe, etc etc, but if I had to choose 3 (1/2 bc duo version of i talk to the wind) to return to, it would be those 3
Classic and groundbreaking for its time
Kult!
low recording quality, which isn't really a problem but would've loved a remaster/remake. jazzy. i hope these notes are private... nvm, quality didn't matter. the composition is very, very good, feels like I'm watching a spectacle but with my ears. i should probably buy a cd for my grandparents, make them listen to something "new"(i don't think they've heard foreign music that much)
Interesting. Some songs were better than others. Sometimes there is jazz, others pure rock, at times it feel like they forgot to play some instrument, because it is just a couple of sounds in the background. To me, it sounds experimental, innovative, creative, and I appreciate that. So I will give them a 3,5/5. A better grade would depend on listening the whole album paying more attention.
Oddly, because I've probably not listened to this in the past with quite the same degree of scrutiny this project encourages, the mark I'm about to give, having now done so, is lower than I'd have thought. So much of it is a clear five, but now that I've actually read the lyrics ... well, without wanting to be too harsh on a record I really like, there are too many patches of sixth-form poetry to go that high. To the extent that this influenced so much of the properly cringe-worthy prog that was to follow, it's therefore a four for me.
I often think of this as one of the greatest albums of all time, but when tossing tracks on a playlist that I’d actually want to listen to, only the first and last song make the cut. The middle has always seemed to me to be the anticipatory silence, with some noodling and decent poetic imagery, before the big slamming finale. I have this on vinyl, and sometimes you can barely make out that music is playing at all for like a half a hour of this if you’re spinning it at a party and have it at a volume that won’t blow people away in that finale. But what a finale it is. Have ever heard anything quite like In the Court of the Crimson King?
Both really enjoyed more than expected!
Was a really good time until the weird stuff started up... but it's King Crimson, it's Prof, it's too be expected (as I've said about every Prof album on this list).
Alle proginteresserte 50+ sitt foretrukne profilbilde på Facebook. Man hører at King Crimson står seg fra mengden av samtidige progga 60-tallsband, men det fremstår litt uferdig. Det tar seg opp på de neste platene.
Wanted to love it but idk
Yeah this does kinda slap...
Interesting mix of casual and homey with complex anthems
4 yeah this was good
The album’s dramatic and melancholic atmosphere sometimes even reminded me of Japanese kayōkyoku in an unexpected way. While some of the longer passages felt excessive to me, the overall sense of scale and influence was undeniable. Epitaph was my favorite track, and I was surprised to learn that the punk label Epitaph Records took its name from the song, which really showed me how far this album’s influence reaches.
Finally, finalmente, a prog album that I can get behind. This isn't full of orks and wizards, it's not got a grating voice, there are no lute and mandolin solos. Just well crafted epic songs. Hats off and a great new addition to my rotation. An album cover I recognise and could name but have never one felt the urge to explore, until now.
Honestly awesome album.
can't decide if this is a 4 or a 5, i'm going to say 4 because my god did the song 'moonchild' drag on
classic
4.5/5
Lately I acknowledged progressive rock as one of my favourite generes in music although I'm very far from acknowledging King Crimson for the greatness of this album. It its a big thing, it is something revolutionary, but I will die on a grave with opinion that I...simply don't like it.
This album was great - weird at times, self indulgent at times, but ultimately have relistened and would relisten again. This is one of those albums I understand why it’s on this list…. Good music
In time grew like less that some of their other albums. Not sure what else is on the list. 4.5 rounded down Heard before? Yes Owned: Yes: 74/294 (24%) Will I get: Already have
breathtaking in its own singular way. one of the best first listens i've had so far with this project
7/10 Aside from the 10 straight minutes where it felt like they were trying to wake up a sleeper cell inside of me, it was pretty darn good.
An album I've constantly heard about but never actually listened to. I would see it posted almost every day on /mu/. One of the better Progressive Rock albums I've listened to. Definitely better than any Yes or Nektar album I've heard... Might even be better than DSOTM, or maybe I've just listened to that one too many times.
listened to again still super great
A lot better than I thought it would be! Track 1 is a sample on Kanye West's 'Power'. Some great songs, though they do go on for a bit... value for money, I suppose!
this is so f#cking frantic... and i love it.
I was prepared to be underwhelmed - another British rock album?? - but this won me over.
It feels awkward giving this a 4 and I really wish there was a .5 system but I just think Moonchild (especially Moonchild) and the title track don’t stick the landing as well as the first 3 tracks do on here. Nevertheless, this is a highly influential record and one of the definitive greats though, and always a pleasure.
gem finder!!! Ball knowledge required. Fire ablum and lwk iconic
The Court Of The Crimson King is pretty baller. I feel like that gotta be Declan’s theme song. And of course 21st Century Schizoid Man is a vibe and a half. Also gotta take a sec to admire the album cover pretty sick.
My guitar teacher was obssesed with this when I was in high school so I listened to it a lot, it's been very strange to see it get elevated so high in the general music consciousness since that Kanye sample, but even more so in the last 5 years as a bit of mandatory vinyl. Lots of high highs: driving bass parts and jammy guitar stuff, big riffs, the cover, sax and melotron sounds, some of the exploratory spacious stuff. The drama of it all. But also, some lows: the flute, some of the more noodly bits that get kind of boring, the folkloric element.
(87/100)
crazy instrumentals and influence
7.5/10 - Super impressive musicianship. This is the closest I get to being excited about Prog. Somewhere solidly between a 3 and a 4.
There's a few minutes of Moonchild that halts the flow of the album, but other than that it's a masterpiece. It's probably my favorite prog album and the musicianship is unreal. 9/10
Reading in a sunny russel square leaning against a tree
This is like the 5th highest rated album on rym. Is it good? Yes. Is it really good? Yes. Is it the fifth greatest album ever? No. Can I see why people might say that? Eh, kind of I guess. Still damn good, maybe it'll grow on me. 4.5/5
there is a lot of vocal dislike for this album, but the ratings suggest otherwise. I actually enjoyed it. First song was a little bit unforgettable, but the rest of the first side was excellent. Moonchild was a bit innocuous but the title track made up for it. Standout track was I talk to the Wind. I would listen to this again. 4 stars
4/5. Kul att få höra 21st century Schizoid man.
The album as a whole blends rock and fantastical elements -- with the flute and choir-like vocals -- that are especially showcased in the track "The Court Of The Crimson King." This album is definitely gearing me towards more of the band's discography. faves: 21st Century Schizoid Man and The Court Of The Crimson King
i feel like this would go crazy if my mind was altered but as it stands this was an enjoyable listen for a walk on a spring day. horns on track 1 came on when i was mindlessly staring at a woman's ass and suddenly i was the (fav:) 21st century schizoid man
Not sure what took me so long to listen to this one, its amazing. A few more listens and im sure it will be a 5.
It’s easy to see why this is considered the ground zero of Prog Rock. I really dug it, especially the opener, "21st Century Schizoid Man." It's a wild ride, a crazy mix of jazz and hard rock that still sounds super fresh, even with that sample Kanye stole... The whole band is amazing, from the Mellotron to the sick drumming that keeps it all together. But the rest is a bit hit or miss. "Epitaph" and the title track are amazing, but the middle section gets a little much. "Moonchild" is a bit too long and noodly for me. Still, it's a super cool, atmospheric album that I'll definitely listen to again.
Rate: 8/10. 21st Century Schizoid Man es la canción de los comerciales!!!!!!
Some really good songs, but a bit overblown for my tastes.
Over the top, pompous lyrics, extended musical sequences that seem to go on forever, I shouldn’t have liked this but I did, it was very enjoyable and stands up well nearly 60 years later. I remember seeing that album cover in record shops when I was a teenager but I had no idea who King Crimson were then.
Know if this album but never heard it. Probably exactly what I expected and I enjoyed it mostly. I would say it is a bit too meandering and almost straying into the ambient in parts though. The lively bits don't hit quite like some other big prog rock bands and the lows are lower. Still good though
A great album. I feel like I would have listened to it eventually. I enjoyed most of it, though it might grow on me with a few more listens, especially the instrumental section on Moonchild. Overall, an interesting listen.
This is great listening
this record introduced me to one of my favorite bands, so yeah i'd say i like it! not my favorite of theirs, but hard to deny da classics
8/10 - Kæmpe Fan Ikonisk album af episke dimensioner. Er vild med de første tre numre samt det 5. og sidste (Hvis man ikke medregner bonus tracks), men Moonchild er for lang og stille til mig. Hvis jeg kunne rate albummet uden moonchild ligger vi nok på 9/10 (Track 1) 21st Century Schizoid Man: Perfekt sang til en get-hyped-playliste (Track 2) I Talk To The Wind: Smukt nummer! Fløjtesoloer er undervurderet (Track 3) Epitath: Aldrig har fortvivlelse lydt så smukt <3 (Track 4) Moonchild: Første to minutter - :)). Sidste 10 minutter - ZzzZzz (Track 5) The Court Of The Crimson King: Masterclass i dynamiske udsving. Prøv lige at vær lidt mere dramatisk
An album I've constantly heard about but never actually listened to. I would see it posted almost every day on /mu/. One of the better Progressive Rock albums I've listened to. Definitely better than any Yes or Nektar album I've heard... Might even be better than DSOTM, or maybe I've just listened to that one too many times.
Such a cool album. Upon my first listen, I thought some of the songs dragged on a little too long for what they were. There was a lot going on, and then a big pause or repetition before the song should’ve ended. However, with another listen, I don’t think any of these songs actually have that problem. Even though some of them do repeat a lot, they are so sonically interesting throughout and with their solos it doesn’t become boring at any point. The only song that I do feel like struggles with this is Moonchild. The beginning of the song sets up such a cool dreamy vibe and then completely changes into something that is basically unlistenable. I struggle with developing interest for a song when over half of it is ambience or uninteresting guitar. If there was anything I would change about this album, it would be Moonchild’s second half. Other than that, amazing. Mid-High 4 stars.
i was always under the impression king crimson were overrated as hell and that i didn't like them. are they overrated??? maybe, depends who you ask. but are they good??? yes they fucking are. this album does a lot and it does it well, i don't really know how else to word it
Some really lovely songs on here. There were definitely parts where it dragged and parts where it got a little squeaky for me, but overall I really enjoyed it. Not something I would normally listen to, but after listening to this I think I would listen again. Fav song: Epitaph Least fav: Moonchild
A few improv moments that went on a little long for me but otherwise shocked by how much I enjoyed this. I'd never heard of King Crimson before and I feel like I've fixed an important gap in my musical education. Favourite song: In The Court Of The Crimson King Least: Moonchild
Heard this one before, good album. Amazing for a 1969 release though.
The prog rocker that gets all the credit. It may not actually be the first, or the best, or any of the other nods it gets and ultimately gets dinged for. But it’s a good album. Hooky, hard and inventive. The middle suite gets a little too spacey before it’s reeled back in. But no matter what anyone says, this one goes hard.
Listening to 21st Century Schizoid Man and walking past Jackson Square felt pretty fitting. The lyrics are crazy, holy shit. Helmet Skelter sorta vibes, but crazier. I’ve never really appreciated this song as much as it deserves- it goes so hard especially for 1969. Some very cool passages (and dark tones) on Moonchild- those rolled off drums are ahead of their time. I didn’t listen to the bonus tracks. Not that I thought I wouldn’t appreciate this, but I enjoyed it more than I expected.
awesome. melodic hooks on 21st Century and the title track are historic. there’s way more mellow moments and balladry on this one than I remember. I always thought of this as one of their most raucous and straight ahead, which it is in some ways, but still very melodic and dynamic, experimental at times. flutes are gorgeous. the string mellotron on In the Court. what an absolutely massive track. feels monumental. I have Crimson records I like more but this listen definitely put this one up a few notches.
aw yeeaahh hell yeahhb baby king crimson awwww yeahhh crimson kingggg
Prog rock truimph
amo il sassofono.
album #31 full of whimsy, which earns major points from me. hard to believe sometimes that this came out in '69. beautifully composed, the symphonic elements bring me so much joy!! the baroque and medieval stylings really add to the narratives throughout and gives the album a fantastical, liminal feeling. ꩜ average track rating: 3.6/5 ꩜ favourite track(s): the court of the crimson king (i love you, "the dance of the puppets") ꩜ least favourite track(s): moonchild ꩜ album rating: ★★★★☆ ꩜ number of albums left to review: 1,058 ꩜ number of albums from the list that i agree with being on the list: 17 (+1 In The Court of the Crimson King) ꩜ albums from the list that I would consider on my list: 8 (+1 In The Court of the Crimson King) ꩜ albums from the list I won't include on my list: 23
4/5 https://rateyourmusic.com/release/album/king-crimson/in-the-court-of-the-crimson-king/ Always have my issues with this album. When it’s good, it’s amazing. However, when it goes into its proggy jazzy tangents, I really can’t stand it. Luckily it doesn’t happen too often, but when it happens it really takes out all my enjoyment of this album. Looking at you, Moonchild.
I think it's better than I first thought. I know songs that have sampled from this album.
Felt pretty ahead of its time tbh! Definitely can see the influence this record had in a bunch of other music. Really enjoyed this.
me gustó mucho!
Good first time listen, surprised me how good, fresh sounding. 3.9/5
YESYESYES
A bold, ambitious debut that really goes for it. It’s uneven, sure, but there’s something genuinely exciting in how far they push things. You can feel the roots of prog taking shape, moving beyond the Pink Floyd-style psychedelia into something more structured and fully realized. I hadn’t listened to it in ages, and coming back to it now is a really pleasant surprise.
I liked this too so I guess I am softening on prog rock???
insane diverse range of this band showcased within the first two songs. the orchestral frenzy of 21st schizoid man is actually a masterpiece, i love it. overall gives a pink floyd vibe that i really fw
Sounds like mix of Pink Floyd and the Beatles Lots of variety Gets slow and boring at the end of some tracks (moonchild) Moonchild is really boring past the 2 minute mark Favorite tracks: epitaph, court of the crimson king
21st Century Schizoid Man Epitaph In the Court of the Crimson King
21st Century Schizoid Man Epitaph A Man A City
It's been a long time since I listened to this.
Muy bueno. Hasta corto te diría. Muy para prestarle atención. Vale una y mas escuchas. In the Court el tema estrella. Nota: 4.1 Nota:
In its context, incredible redefining genre gem. Must listen indeed. The tracks seemed so long and irritating - did not age well But I mean...
8.5/10
As individual tracks, I didn't add any of these to my faves BUT, taken as a whole, what a piece of music! And a debut! 4/5
I’m still rating this a 4 but I don’t disagree with the lower aggregate this has on here. If you cut Moonchild entirely, this is an easy 4 or higher.
Iconic album, down to its cover. "I Talk to the Wind" has always been my favorite song here. The extensive jazz influence on the tracks here separates it from other prog records, most often to its success, but unfortunately to its detriment on "Moonchild," a meandering mess. I think without that clunker it would be their very best album!
This is amazing, especially for the time it came out. I enjoy the amount of albums on here that are much older than they actually sound.
Muy bueno, adelantado a su época
interesting sound
Really cool album. I'd only listened to one song on this album before but did not expect the vibe of the others. Some weird sections of noise and random sounds like parts of Pink Floyd's albums but the actual musical pieces were very good
King Crimson are a band I’ve heard of but never really heard. I have heard “21st Century Schizoid Man” but a long time ago, I never remembered it sounding quite like this, this was a bit of a ride. “I Talk to the Wind” I really like. It’s a real trippy, calm but sorrowful tune. I dig this feeling a lot and the softer vocals really fit. Up until “Moonchild” I was likely giving this a 5, unfortunately I just couldn’t enjoy whatever they decided to noodle around with for like 10 minutes. It’s far too long a time in my opinion to just improvise a bunch of noises which is what it sounded like to me. The final track brought back the sound I’d heard and enjoyed for the others songs and is a great finale. I love hearing different things, I am familiar with some prog rock but certainly not an aficionado. I liken some of the sound here to Pink Floyd’s stranger material – both are British prog rockers from the same era so no surprise. I dig the majority of the album, the musicianship, haunting moods and powerful lyrics that are perfectly complimented by the music. A solid 4/5 and I’d definitely listen to this again.
Beautiful album! “21st Century Schizoid Man” and “In The Court Of The Crimson King” are absolute classics. I’m going to give this album four stars because “Moonchild” overstayed its welcome.
me encantó la variedad de instrumentos y sonidos que hay, y como de esa forma se intenta (o eso creo yo) contar una historia. son canciones muy largas y eso hizo que tardara mas en sentarme a escucharlo.
YYYYYYYEEEEAAAHHHHHHHHHHH I love these guys and I love this album hell yeah
There's a touch of nostalgia with this rating but 21st Century Schizoid Man, I Talk to the Wind, and the title track are just outstanding. Epitaph drags and we won't discuss the backhalf of Moonchild.
"I don't know if I'll ever add any of the songs to a mix, but I will definitely return to listen to the album as a whole. Was really surprised by how much I enjoyed it" - my album review April 17, 2025 Well I came back and it was better than I remembered. (4.5)
Really cooool. My brother's a big fan too.
Moonchild drags it down
Definitely deserves its place on the list, but not one of my favorite prog rock albums of all time. Where it was easy for me to get into Rush, Yes, Pink Floyd, and even The Moody Blues (yes, I am one of those that considers DAYS OF FUTURE PAST an iconic prog rock album), I never felt comfortable in the pocket of KING CRIMSON. While IN THE COURT OF THE CRIMSON KING was never quite my cup of tea, I certainly have mad respect for their songwriting risk taking, performance chops, and their genre fluidity. All of the tracks are strong with perhaps the one exception being "Moonchild". I get what they were trying to do, but personally I don't think it works and as much as I love experimentation it was fairly annoying. The "ambient-jazz" interlude doesn't work and goes on way too long.
this album rules
I loved it, very ahead of it’s time too
The sound very full, and not as noisy as typical rock of the later 80s. Not bad!
Lovely
Pretty good!!
I've listened to the title track before as part of a past exercise. That was really cool
Didn’t care for the first track but the rest of the album was really good. I respect them making the song nearly 9 minutes, it lets your drown into the songs.
Incredible record, let down by Moonchild
clearly incredible and influential, some of the more mellow instrumentals did start to drag but the others make up for it
Moonchild, too much. Otherwise, 4 (not a jester in this court) stars.
Classic prog rock stuff. I don't like this as much as a lot of people but 21st Century Schizoid Man is a great song. I also prefer KC's Red over this, still some very impressive stuff though
Excellent for the most part apart from some pretentious noodling half way through that seemed to last forever.
Eigentlich passt das perfekt in meine Fantasy Playlist. 2 der 8 Songs waren (gute) Remixes, und ich mochte also 4/6 Songs. 'The Court of the Crimson King' (Song) ist gerade einer meiner Favoriten.
Fantastic instrumentals Definitely not an every day listen but great psychedelic rock I wish there was more going on lyrics wise with some of the songs, highly repetitive lyrics for 7-10 minutes starts to get a bit old 21st century schizoid man and In the Court of the Crimson King were standout favorites, I talk to the Wind and Moonchild not so much. Would lean closer to a 3.5 if I could since I loved 3/5 songs. The remaining 2 were good but not something I see myself revisiting often.
I really enjoyed this more than I anticipated I would, I didn’t know the band well but had been exposed to samples and stuff. Very cool, I loved the big, atmospheric, swelling nature of the songs
Weird but I liked it
I had a great time listening to this
Listened to that shit already hella goated
Very psychedelic and vibes. Not a ton of variety, but good album.
Whoooooooo!!!!!!!
Would be a 5 if not for Moonchild sadly.
It was really good I liked it
Very chill. Very effective ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 💿
Very interesting album, I haven't heard of this act before. It was an experience. The first song was an instant hook, really feeling like a rock song with jazz, blues, and electro music. The rest of the album felt pretty tonally different, and each song was pretty damn long. I really did enjoy it, even with not knowing at all what happened next. 4/5
I was vibing with this hard, until "Moonchild" showed up and sucked all the wind out of the sails. Luckily "The Court of the Crimson King" kind of a banger to end us off so they brought me back
actually pretty cool. upbeat jazz vibe i would listen again
Very good!! More of a work of art rather than an album of songs I can dance and relisten to, but I appreciate that. 4 ⭐️
Really good. Love the instrumentation, especially the brass on track 1. Really innovative with some great improvised stuff as well. The blending of a 60s rock sound and jazz sounds great.
Better than colidplay
another magnificent prog gem.
I never knew that this was the first ever Prog Rock album. Putting it in that kind of frame makes me like this album a lot more than I already did. I honestly wish more bands did the whole "songs within songs" thing that this album does. A lot of prog bands still do it with multi-part songs, but I just think it's funny to see a really long title that says (including "[like 3 extra songs]"). Anyways, to weigh in on Moonchild, since I see a bajillion people talking about that song in the reviews and I want to join in, I like it. I wasn't too major on it when I first heard the album, but it's nice. The album definitely has a stronger A Side than B Side as a whole, but this is surprisingly well-done for the first ever Prog album.
Good album, quite heavy for the time.
Very good album, first time listening (JoJo ref also) liked it a lot
In The Court Of The Crimson King by King Crimson, a band out of London, was released in 1969. While the album is Progressive Rock, the band themselves are known for blending many styles into their music. This album is no exception with jazz and classical music blending into their rock stylings to create something to talk about the devastating effects of war, alienation, disillusionment with the ruling government, and the percieved powerlessness of human efforts to stop corrupt forces in leadership and governig authorities. There's quite the legacy to this album. While I've still yet to go through King Crimson's work or this album at least, I've seen it on so many 'masterpiece' lists and the album art itself is iconic both in reference to and in speration to the album. The art, dubbed 'Schizoid Man' was created by a programmer called Barry Godber, who was a friend of Peter Sinfield. A co-founder of the band and the former lyricist. Godber used his own face as the model but would tragically pass soon after the album's release by a heart attack at the age of 24. It was his only painting to ever be released. With the perspective of hindsight, you can hear the band's influence. So many bands have referenced certain lines, repeated specific notes, sampled whole lines and sections, and even some prog rock that came after was clearly inspired by King Crimson, especially this album. 'I Talk To The Wind' is one of the more curious songs I've heard in a while that are about religious doubts and of god. The wind being an analogy for god to refer to how god appears ignorant to us, cannot be seen, but its effects can be felt. While a very sombre song, it also is quite repetitive while I feel like undercuts any wider introspection or message the song might have had. If the song ever intended to do either to begin with. I like the analogy but that's kind of where the interesting part of the song ends for me. Epitaph is a beautiful song made under the threat of nuclear winter during the . The song is inherently fatalistic, made no more obvious by the title and the most repeated line, "I fear tomorrow I'll be crying." I feel like so few songs nowadays are cynical. Perhaps that's indicative of the time we live in or just fear on the part of artists as cynicism doesn't sell like positivity but it's a refreshing tone to hear in a song. It might be the song I enjoyed most out of the album which stand in direct contrast to the song that came after it, "Moonchild." A song I not only disliked the most from the album but actually had a hard time listening to. From jump the song is obviously going for an abstract angle. I would not be surprised to be told the instrumental section was improvised in the studio recording. And the song's lyrics bolster the idea that there's intend to create a discomfort and unease in the listener. Unfortunately I do really like experimental songs, abstract melodies, and improvised instrumentals. I want to enjoy this one too but I cannot articulate just how much I hated Moonchild. Thankfully the next and titular song, "The Court of the Crimson King," is such a beautiful soundscape. The atmosphere is the most beautiful out of the entire album, using common medieval motifs in the verse to build to a strong drone in a repeating refrain/bridge. The refrain substitutes a chorus as the verses have a narrative to them which might be undercut by even a catchy 4 line chorus. The narrative is analogous to common players in a medieval fantasy court being echoes of our own political government system. The Crimson King, Black Queen, Fire Witch, Yellow Jester, Purple Piper, and more are all easy stand ins for figures of authority of the time yet can easily be repeated to use the analogy again in my own time. Overall it's a fun analogy, even if bleak, that I really enjoyed as much as I would hope that this analogy's continues aptness would end. The version I listened to was the original. I was tempted to listen to the remaster as I tend to prefer those versions, when I saw there were multiple with changed and added track-listings I decided not to bother and went to the original. Trying to work out which is considered the true definitive edition is a waste of time for something I've never heard and need to listen to in a day. Anyway, to my overall feelings. I liked it a lot. "21st Century Schizoid Man" is a hell of an ear worm I may end up muttering to myself over the next few days like a crazy person, "Epitaph" was a beautiful bit of cynacism that will still with me, and the titular "The Court Of The Crimson King" is one I'm finding myself struggling to decide which playlist to put on. (It could fit in so many yet there's none it fits into more than the others). A great album I would recommend for anybody who likes prog rock or albums with a clear message. Though I will always forwarn people to skip Moonchild.
Never listened to the screamy face man album (largely out of spite?), but this was pretty good. I liked the opener and closer's prog a lot, the middle was a bit slower than I'd like. Rounding up to 4
Very fun album, enjoyed it a lot
Uno de los albumes mas iconicos del rock progresivo y una de mis bandas favoritas del rock prog. Me encantan esos sonidos medievales que logran entre la combinacion de la bateria y los instrumentos de viento que usan, le da esa vibe sinfonica que se impone bastante. Algo que me parece super interesante es el manejo de los silencios y como van jugando con la potencia en cada uno de los temas. Tengo una debilidad por "epitaph", me parece completisimo, no solo musicalmente sino en relación a la letra. Masterpiece que siempre es necesario volver a escuchar.
I was really looking forward to this one, since I’ve seen it on so many favorite albums lists that people/critics make, and I’ve never heard any of it. The first song (21st Century Schizoid Man) is incredible. I wasn’t so sure about the rest of the album on the first listen, but on the second listen I feel like I “got it.” The only thing keeping it from a 5 star album for me is that some of the tracks go on too long, seemingly so the band can show how awesome they are instead of serving the song (“Moonchild” especially). But otherwise an awesome listen.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Jazziig och exprimentäl rock. Gillar 21st Century Schizoid Man och The Court of the Crimson King mest. Intressant och lite utmanande men utan att kännas för sökt. Det greppar mig inte riktigt, hade nog behlvt några fler lyssningar. Velar mellan stark 3a eller svag 4a.
Seems like the spiritual predecessor to King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard
good, moonchild is a bit boring towards the end
i need more
Classic Kanye sample to start. Can see how it could've been very influential to a flaming lips, tame impala, etc. Awesome mix of rock and jazz.
Always really enjoyed this album, so close to a 5/5 but i a)feel like being stingy and b)think some of the tracks can get repetitive. That said, the general cohesion and mood of this album is incredibly enjoyable makes a good listen !
This is extremely impressive in a way that doesn’t try to blow your mind, it just quietly earns its status. The songs still hits insanely hard, especially knowing it came out in 1969, but it’s Epitaph that had me the most engaged. The whole album has this mythic, almost medieval atmosphere that makes it feel like its own world rather than just an early prog album. “Moonchild” drags a little, but not enough to be overly annoying and it still fits the mood more than it hurts it. Compared to modern albums, it’s rougher around the edges, but that is exactly what makes it compelling as it helps build the atmosphere I previously mentioned. I’m now kicking myself for having put this off for so long.
8/10 really beautiful variety of jazz/rock music
Looooong songs BUT saved every single one. Big slay of an album; embarrassed to admit this is my first time listening to King Crimson
I'm a known prog rock hater, but this was actually pretty good. Cool to hear the original track that Kanye sampled on Power. Moonchild was still a bridge too far for me, but who knows…maybe I'm coming around to Prog. 4/5 Highlights: 21st Century Schizoid Man
Oväntat bra
Generally, loved it. 4* because some moments here you probably had to be at the party to fully get it. Bloody good party though!
well that was kind of magical
So whimsical, it almost carries you away. Never heard anything quite like it, but I want more.
人声很少，满意！
Fire sample shout out Kanye
I like it. Would listen again probably only in album format
Low key a vibe
YES! but not the band YES!, good prog rock album
3.5 round up to 4
It’s prog in its purest
Class album except Moonchild which is shite. Great cover. Fuck Gary
Prog masterpiece
Good, but a bit boring
oh i LOVE this! The rollercoaster of instrumentals in the first track is awesome. Every single song in the album evokes a different emotion. Epitaph is a personal favorite - it's like a beautiful-sounding tragedy unraveling in my ears. good shit. There was no bad song. 8/10 - will definitely listen to this again!
Experimental, but really cool. Love the variety of song structures and instruments, and the drumming in particular too.
If there's one thing to critic about this album is that it has some freeform improv in the middle of it. Some of the best things in the genere you could hear besides that sore spot on it.
I still need to listen to it some more to gel, but I don't think this is the best King Crimson has to offer, despite what RYM says.
"In the Court of the Crimson King" by King Crimson is an absolute classic of late-60s and early-70s prog-rock. I honestly cannot remember when I first heard it, but I have listened to this album many times over the years and I still really enjoy it every single time. I am a big prog-rock fan in general, so this album naturally speaks to me. It has that perfect mix of ambition, atmosphere, and musicianship that defines the genre at its best. It also reminds me of other great prog albums from that era, like "Days of Future Passed" by The Moody Blues, both in mood and in scope. Fun fact: the iconic album cover, with the screaming face, was painted by Barry Godber, who was actually a computer programmer and not a professional artist. Sadly, he died just a few months after the album was released, making this painting his only widely known artwork.
I can hear how Bad Religion's 21st Century (Digital Boy) was inspired by 21st Century Schizoid Man. Some of this music was too far off the deep-end and some of it was really great. I really liked the way A Man A City really leaned into the jazz.
Super cool album, really liked the variety of sounds
Wow, I loved this. Shockingly I’d never heard of King Crimson until now, let alone heard this album so this was an unexpected delight and I look forward to delving into the rest of their discography. I’ve only stuck to 4* because I could have happily listened to double the length of this album. Oh no… do i like prog rock now?!
A landmark album, so I’m told, and I will say it definitely sounds newer than it is. 21st Century Schizoid Man is a little too chaotic - could have used a consistent bass line. It feels more meandering than schizophrenic. I Talk to the Wind and Epitaph are much better… moving and swelling in ways that feel beautiful and purposeful. And then there’s Moonchild. Never have I ever heard a longer stretch of directionless messing around on a record. The musical equivalent of doodling. It’s fine as background noise, but it’s not good. Finally, the Court of the Crimson King is the highlight of the record. Everything comes together (although there is a minute more of pointless noodling near the end that keeps it from being a perfect song). This record has some 5/5 moments and some 1/5 moments… but the good parts are so strong I still think it’s a light 4, and an album that I think could grow on me with repeated listenings.
Really fun, actually!
Can't believe I've never listened to King Crimson before, really good and didn't feel self-indulgent like some other prog albums on the list.
Älskar kaosig saxofon!
Det är ju tufft att följa upp öppningen som är 6/5 men är ändå imponerad från start till mål. Finns också nåt kaxigt inatt riva av den jäveln direkt och sen ba ta ner det. Bara lyssnat en gång på hela albumet sen innan och det växte denna gång.
Kan man ge nen femma på potential? Nä kanske inte. Kommer återkomma och kanske höja denna
I feel like such a pretentious fuck for loving king crimson as much as I do. But I do. They’re a phenomenal band that make phenomenal music, still it’s kinda worse than the last album I listened to from them
Jazzy-prog came moving in to odd time signitures at the tail-end of the 60s. It's by turns, mellow, angry, rifftastic, OTT and everything in between This album is a classic for a reason - and not just the album cover. Best Tracks: 21st Century Schizoid Man; I Talk to the Wind; The Court of the Crimson King
Album 19 Top 3 favorites off the album: The Court of the Crimson King, Moonchild, I Talk To The Wind I'm feeling uninspired today, so another uncharacteristically short one. This was a good album. I like the blend of jazz and rock and such, and liked the variety in instrumental breaks. I think most tracks were the appropriate length, though a few came close to feeling almost excessively long (looking at you, Moonchild). Despite that, I found myself enjoying all the ground covered in those longer tracks. Overall, a good listen, and one I might occasionally come back to.
7/10
Легенда (хоча не мій улюблений альбом крімзон)
Some bits were a little too weird, but mostly awesome
music blend
veramente assurdo, decisamente originale. poche parole e tanta musica. influenze jazz. esperienza da fare, anche se non sono canzoni che ascolterei tutti i giorni
Great, heavy prog, good songwriting regardless.
saatana kuin pitkiä biisejä. Biisit on elokuvamusiikkimaisia mielikuvan maalaajia, oikein hyvin uppoaa tällaiseenkin paskiaiseen mitä minä olen.