"Tarkus" Album Description:
The release of Emerson, Lake & Palmer's "Tarkus" on a 12" vinyl LP in 1971 marked a significant contribution to the music landscape of that time period. This iconic album, pressed on high-quality audiophile 200 grams vinyl and adorned with a gatefold album cover featuring the artistic prowess of William Neal, stands as a testament to the fusion of progressive rock and avant-garde elements that defined an era.
In the early 1970s, the music scene was undergoing a transformative period, witnessing the rise of progressive rock as a genre that pushed the boundaries of conventional musical norms. Emerson, Lake & Palmer (ELP), comprised of keyboardist Keith Emerson, vocalist and bassist Greg Lake, and drummer Carl Palmer, emerged as pioneers within this movement.
The production of "Tarkus" showcased the band's commitment to sonic excellence. Eddy "Are You Ready" Offord, the skilled sound and recording engineer behind the album, played a crucial role in capturing the intricate layers of the band's instrumentation. The decision to press the release on 200 grams vinyl further emphasized the commitment to delivering a high-fidelity listening experience, appealing to audiophiles and enthusiasts who sought the best in sound quality.
The album cover, featuring paintings by William Neal, added a visual dimension to the auditory journey that "Tarkus" offered. Neal's artistic creations complemented the thematic richness of the music, creating a cohesive and immersive experience for the listener. The gatefold design allowed for a larger canvas to showcase Neal's intricate artwork, inviting fans to explore the visual narrative that accompanied the musical compositions.
Island Records, a label known for its eclectic roster and commitment to artistic expression, played a pivotal role in bringing "Tarkus" to audiences in Germany. The international release of the album further expanded the reach of Emerson, Lake & Palmer, contributing to the globalization of progressive rock and cementing their status as influential musicians on the global stage.
Band Members and Musicians on: Emerson, Lake & Palmer Tarkus (Island Records Gatefold album cover)
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Band-members, Musicians and Performers
- Keith Emerson (ex The Nice)
Keith Emerson, a legendary keyboardist and composer, revolutionised progressive rock as the driving force behind Emerson, Lake & Palmer. Known for his virtuosic skills on the Moog synthesizer and Hammond organ, he fused classical, jazz, and rock into epic soundscapes. Emerson’s fearless showmanship and innovative compositions cemented his legacy as a pioneer who redefined the role of keyboards in rock music.
Learn about him
- Greg Lake - Vocals, Bass Guitar
Greg Lake, the voice of progressive rock, captivated audiences as a founding member of Emerson, Lake & Palmer. Renowned for his soulful vocals and songwriting, Lake shaped hits like ‘Lucky Man’ and powered the band’s fusion of classical and rock elements. His artistry defined 1970s prog rock and left an enduring legacy.
Learn more about Greg Lake’s journey with ELP
- Carl Palmer
Carl Palmer, legendary drummer of progressive rock, brought technical brilliance and showmanship to Emerson, Lake & Palmer (ELP), shaping classics like Tarkus. Later, he co-founded Asia, where hits like Heat of the Moment showcased his versatility. From complex rhythms to arena anthems, Palmer redefined rock drumming.
Learn more about his legacy here.
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