ELP EMERSON LAKE & PALMER – WORKS 12" Vinyl 2LP Album

- Rare Swiss Pressing, see +ML+ on record's label

Album Front Cover Photo of ELP Emerson Lake & Palmer Works Swiss Pressing Visit: https://vinyl-records.nl/

“Works” by Emerson, Lake & Palmer wasn’t just an album—it was an ego symphony carved into four vinyl sides. Each member took a solo journey before reuniting for the thunderous “Fanfare for the Common Man.” The Swiss pressing, marked with the mysterious +ML+ on its white Ariola label, is a collector’s delight—clean, weighty, and impeccably produced. It captures that shimmering late-1970s moment when prog rock still believed it could outplay the universe, one Moog solo at a time.

Table of Contents

"Works" Album Description:

In the world of progressive rock history, few albums have left as indelible a mark as "Works Volume I" by Emerson, Lake & Palmer (ELP). This 1977 masterpiece stands as a testament to the band's virtuosity and creative prowess. Among the myriad editions of this album, the Rare Swiss Pressing, distinguished by the enigmatic "+ML+" mark on its label, stands out as a cherished gem among collectors and aficionados of the genre.

A Brief Overview of Works Volume I: A Musical Odyssey

"Works Volume I" is not just an album; it's a musical journey that traverses diverse sonic landscapes, each shaped by the distinctive talents of the three band members – Keith Emerson, Greg Lake, and Carl Palmer. This opus is ingeniously divided into four sections, with each focusing on the individual virtuosity of the band members and a concluding section showcasing their combined brilliance.

The first section, curated by Keith Emerson, exudes his keyboard wizardry and compositional finesse. His intricate arrangements and seamless fusion of classical influences with rock elements redefine the possibilities of progressive rock.

Greg Lake, the voice behind some of the genre's most iconic anthems, curates the second section. His soulful vocals and introspective songwriting paint a vivid emotional tapestry, showcasing a different facet of ELP's multifaceted artistry.

In the third section, Carl Palmer's percussive prowess takes center stage. His rhythmic dynamism and technical mastery infuse the music with an infectious energy, solidifying the band's reputation as virtuoso performers.

The culmination of "Works Volume I" arrives with the fourth section, where all three virtuosos combine their talents. This harmonious synergy results in a musical climax that demonstrates the band's prowess as a collective force.

The Enigma of the Rare Swiss Pressing

Among the various pressings of "Works Volume I", the Rare Swiss Pressing possesses an aura of mystique that captures the imagination of collectors. Distinguished by the "+ML+" mark on the record's label, this pressing represents a unique moment in the album's history. While the exact significance of this marking remains shrouded in mystery, it serves as a symbol of rarity and exclusivity.

Collectors and enthusiasts alike covet the Swiss Pressing for its exceptional audio quality and historical significance. The meticulous craftsmanship that went into the production of this pressing is evident in its pristine sound reproduction, which allows listeners to fully immerse themselves in the sonic intricacies of ELP's magnum opus.

Keith Emerson: The Mastermind Behind the Album

"Works Volume I" owes much of its brilliance to the masterful production of Keith Emerson. As a pioneering keyboardist, composer, and arranger, Emerson's innovative vision was instrumental in shaping the album's diverse sonic landscape. His ability to seamlessly blend classical motifs with rock elements imbues the album with a timeless quality that continues to captivate audiences.

Emerson's role as a producer is also noteworthy, as he expertly navigated the delicate balance between individual creativity and collective cohesion. The album's structure, which showcases each member's distinct voice while maintaining a cohesive narrative, stands as a testament to Emerson's meticulous craftsmanship.

Production & Recording Information:

Music Genre:

Progressive Rock

Progressive Rock flourished during the 1970s with its fusion of rock, classical, and experimental elements. Emerson, Lake & Palmer were among the genre’s most successful pioneers, known for ambitious arrangements and virtuosic performances that redefined rock musicianship.

Producers:
  • Greg Lake – Producer
    Greg Lake was not only the band’s bassist and vocalist but also an accomplished producer, shaping the signature sound of ELP’s grand studio productions. His solo career and earlier work with King Crimson helped define progressive rock’s melodic edge.
Label & Catalognr:

Ariola 28 612

Ariola Records was a leading European label in the 1970s, known for distributing both international rock and pop artists. Their Swiss pressings were prized for high-quality vinyl and crisp mastering.

Album Packaging:

Gatefold / FOC (Fold Open Cover) Album Cover Design with artwork and photos on the inside cover pages.

The fold-open design mirrored the band’s ambition—luxurious presentation for an equally grand musical statement.

Media Format:

Double 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover + Record) weight: 380 gram

Year & Country:

1977 – Made in Switzerland

Released during the height of ELP’s fame, this 1977 Swiss pressing coincided with the group’s massive European and American tours.

Orchestration & Arrangement:

Orchestration by Keith Emerson and John Mayer

John J. Mayer (1929–2015), an Anglo-Indian composer and conductor known for blending Western classical music with Indian influences.

Arranged by Emerson, Lake and Palmer

The Orchestra de l'Opéra de Paris conducted by Godfrey Salmon

The use of a full symphony orchestra elevated the album into crossover territory, combining Emerson’s classical leanings with rock dynamics on a scale few others attempted.

Recording Studios:

Mountain Recording Studios

Pathé Marconi EMI Studios, Paris

Both studios were known for high-fidelity production during the 1970s. Mountain Studios in Montreux would later become famous through Queen’s recordings.

Sound & Recording Engineers:
  • John Timperley – Sound Engineer
    John Timperley engineered sessions for top-tier British acts, renowned for capturing orchestral clarity in rock recordings.
  • Roger Cameron – Sound Engineer
    Roger Cameron worked across EMI and independent studios, contributing to several progressive and jazz-rock projects of the decade.
Personal Assistance:

Alex Grob – Personal assistance

Alex Grob frequently supported ELP’s European sessions and tours, ensuring smooth coordination between the production crew and musicians.

Photography:
  • David Montgomery
    Montgomery was one of Britain’s most prolific rock photographers, capturing iconic 1970s portraits of Jimi Hendrix, Queen, and Pink Floyd.
  • Kenny Smith
    Kenny Smith’s crisp, natural-light photography became a signature of European album design during the late 1970s.
  • Alex Grob
    Besides his production role, Grob contributed to the album’s visual documentation with candid studio shots.
Art Direction & Design:
  • Ashley Newton – Art Direction
    Ashley Newton went on to an influential career in the music industry, later serving as a top executive at Columbia Records.
  • Ian Murray – Design and Artwork
    Ian Murray specialized in minimal, type-driven album designs that conveyed sophistication without visual clutter.
Yamaha GX-1 Synthesizer
Yamaha GX-1 synthesizer used by Keith Emerson during the recording of Emerson, Lake & Palmer's 'Works' album, a massive analog polyphonic keyboard weighing over 300 kg and costing as much as a house in the 1970s.

The Yamaha GX-1 was the holy grail of analog synthesizers—part organ, part spaceship. Used by Keith Emerson on “Fanfare for the Common Man,” its towering frame and triple keyboards produced orchestral power through pure voltage. With a price tag rivaling a house, it embodied the wild ambition of 1970s prog rock excess.

Band Members / Musicians:

Band Line-up:
  • Keith Emerson – Keyboards, Synthesizers, Orchestration
    Keith Emerson was one of the founding icons of progressive rock. Known for his virtuosic keyboard mastery and showmanship, he blended rock and classical forms with fearless experimentation. His earlier work with The Nice and later success with ELP made him one of the most innovative keyboardists of the 20th century.
  • Greg Lake – Vocals, Bass Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Producer
    Greg Lake’s warm baritone voice and melodic bass style defined the sound of both King Crimson and Emerson, Lake & Palmer. His songwriting—particularly on “Lucky Man” and “From the Beginning”—cemented his place among rock’s most refined composers.
  • Carl Palmer – Drums, Percussion
    Carl Palmer was celebrated for his technical precision and speed, bringing jazz-influenced finesse to rock percussion. Before forming ELP, he played with The Crazy World of Arthur Brown and Atomic Rooster, later joining Asia for global commercial success in the 1980s.

Complete Track-listing:

Tracklisting Side One (Keith Emerson):
  1. Piano Concerto No. 1: Allegro giusto
  2. Piano Concerto No. 1: Andante molto cantabile
  3. Piano Concerto No. 1: Toccata con fuoco
Tracklisting Side Two (Greg Lake):
  1. Lend Your Love to Me Tonight
  2. C'est la Vie
  3. Hallowed Be Thy Name
  4. Nobody Loves You Like I Do
  5. Closer to Believing
Tracklisting Side Three (Carl Palmer):
  1. The Enemy God Dances with the Black Spirits
  2. L.A. Nights
  3. New Orleans
  4. Two Part Invention in D Minor
  5. Food for Your Soul
  6. Tank
Tracklisting Side Four (Group):
  1. Fanfare for the Common Man
  2. Pirates
Album Front Cover Photo
High resolution photo of the Swiss pressing front cover of 'Works' by Emerson, Lake & Palmer. The design presents a deep black background with elegant white serif lettering centered near the top reading 'EMERSON LAKE & PALMER' and beneath it 'WORKS.' The subtle embossed ELP monogram sits in the center, visible only under reflected light, adding texture to the minimalist composition. In the upper right corner, a small 'Volume I' appears, understated yet precise. The restrained layout and glossy surface convey a sense of orchestral sophistication and grandeur, perfectly matching the album’s progressive symphonic sound.

This is the front cover of the rare Swiss pressing of "Works" by Emerson, Lake & Palmer. It is a masterclass in minimalist album design, relying entirely on contrast, texture, and restraint.

Against a jet-black background, the band’s name “EMERSON LAKE & PALMER” is printed in clean, elegant serif capitals, centered and balanced, followed below by the single word “WORKS.” The typography’s precision evokes classical concert posters rather than rock sleeves.

Subtle and nearly hidden, an embossed ELP monogram rests in the center, only visible when light glances across the glossy surface — a small design secret that collectors love. In the upper right corner, the understated label “Volume I” completes the symmetry.

The overall design, executed with stark simplicity, mirrors the album’s concept — an ambitious orchestral rock statement by a band at the height of its technical and creative power.

Album Back Cover Photo
High resolution photo of the back cover of the Swiss pressing of 'Works' by Emerson, Lake & Palmer. The design continues the minimalist theme: a matte black background with a centered white rectangular box bordered by fine black lines. Inside this box, neatly typeset in black serif text, are the full track listings for all four LP sides—each dedicated to Keith Emerson, Greg Lake, Carl Palmer, and finally the group together. Production and orchestration credits, studio acknowledgements, and photography details are printed with precision. In the lower section appear the Ariola logo, copyright information (©1977 Palm Beach International Recording Ltd.), and a ‘Printed in Western Germany’ note, while a yellow retail code sticker in the upper right corner adds a vintage authenticity touch. The back cover’s simplicity and symmetry mirror the sophistication of the music itself.

The back cover of the Swiss pressing of "Works" by Emerson, Lake & Palmer continues the visual discipline of its front design. The surface is deep black, with a centrally placed white rectangular box bordered in black, creating a refined contrast.

Inside, all four sides of the double LP are listed: one for Keith Emerson’s “Piano Concerto No. 1,” one for Greg Lake’s lyrical compositions, one for Carl Palmer’s percussive showcase, and a final side for the group’s joint performances including “Fanfare for the Common Man” and “Pirates.”

Below the track listings, meticulous production details, recording credits, and acknowledgements are displayed in a clear, elegant serif font. The layout includes thanks to Mountain Recording Studios, Pathé Marconi EMI Studios in Paris, and contributors such as Alex Grob, Ashley Newton, and Ian Murray.

At the bottom, the Ariola logo and ©1977 Palm Beach International Recording Ltd. appear, along with a note that it was printed in Western Germany. A small yellow sticker in the top right corner adds a nostalgic retail detail. The overall composition balances precision and restraint—perfectly in tune with ELP’s grand yet ordered musical vision.

Photo of Custom Inner Sleeve
High resolution photo of the custom inner sleeve from the Swiss pressing of 'Works' by Emerson, Lake & Palmer. The image presents a striking black-and-white portrait of Keith Emerson leaning thoughtfully over a grand Steinway piano, its lid open in a bold geometric silhouette that dominates the right side of the frame. The composition plays with light and shadow, blending Emerson’s contemplative presence with the sweeping curves of the instrument. Below the photo, printed in elegant serif type, are the credits for 'Piano Concerto No. 1,' listing the London Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by John Mayer, with orchestration by Emerson and Mayer. The clean white background and minimalist typography enhance the sense of precision and artistic refinement, mirroring the classical ambitions of the piece.

The custom inner sleeve of the Swiss pressing of "Works" captures Keith Emerson at his most reflective and classical. The black-and-white photograph shows him leaning over a grand piano, its lid opened wide into a sweeping curve that dominates the composition.

The lighting isolates Emerson’s figure against a soft gradient background, creating a sense of focus and stillness. The photograph’s geometry — the sharp lines of the piano balanced by the gentle contours of his posture — evokes both discipline and emotion.

Beneath the image, fine serif typography lists the details of “Piano Concerto No. 1”, performed by the London Philharmonic Orchestra, orchestrated by Emerson and John Mayer, and conducted by Mayer himself. Emerson’s name appears again as the performer on Steinway piano.

The layout’s purity — light background, generous spacing, and understated credits — reflects the high-art ambition behind this album’s opening side. It’s not rock packaging; it’s concert program design, reinterpreted for vinyl.

Close up of Side One record’s label
Close-up photo of the white Ariola record label for the Swiss pressing of 'Works' by Emerson, Lake & Palmer. The label features crisp black serif typography printed on a matte white background. The Ariola logo—a stylized globe formed by horizontal grid lines within a square—is positioned at the top center, representing the international reach of the record company. Below it, the album and track details are neatly centered, listing 'Keith Emerson – Piano Concerto No. 1' with its three movements, duration times, and credits. To the right, the +ML+ marking appears—a distinct identifier unique to this Swiss pressing—alongside copyright text for Palm Beach International Recording Ltd. and the 1977 date. The outer rim bears the German-language rights notice 'Alle Urheber- und Leistungsschutzrechte vorbehalten,' indicating the record’s European manufacture. The overall presentation is precise, elegant, and unmistakably European in style.

This close-up shows the Side One label of the Swiss pressing of "Works" by Emerson, Lake & Palmer, released on Ariola in 1977. The label’s clean white background and finely printed black text reflect Ariola’s meticulous European design standards.

The Ariola logo at the top center features a stylized grid globe, symbolizing the label’s international presence. Beneath it, the track listing details Keith Emerson’s Piano Concerto No. 1 with all three movements, their precise timings, and performer credits.

To the right, a small +ML+ mark identifies this as the rare Swiss pressing variant. The lower half carries full production credits and catalog numbers, while the rim text in German confirms continental European manufacture.

The centered typography, absence of decorative color, and the balance between utility and aesthetics give this label its distinctive, understated sophistication.

Switzerland Label
Colours
Black text on matte white background
Design & Layout
Centered typography with clear serif font; minimalist structure emphasizing legibility and precision
Record company logo
Ariola globe emblem composed of horizontal lines within a square, representing worldwide distribution
Band/Performer logo
No ELP logo on this label; text-only identification emphasizing formality
Unique features
Contains rare +ML+ marking exclusive to the Swiss edition; clear 1977 copyright text with Palm Beach International Recording Ltd.
Side designation
Left side printed as "SIDE ONE STEREO 28 612 XU"
Rights society
ASCAP (U.S. publishing), printed along with German-language rights statement on rim
Catalogue number
28 612 XU (also noted as S 28 612 A)
Rim text language
German
Track list layout
Centered; movement titles listed sequentially with timings and orchestral credits beneath
Rights info placement
Printed at bottom and right side near the logo area
Pressing info
Manufactured in Switzerland under Ariola label, pressed by Eurodisc GmbH, Munich (credit on rim)
Background image
Plain white; no decorative imagery or watermark, maintaining a professional presentation

Emerson Lake Palmer Vinyl Album Discography and Album Cover Gallery

ELP EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER - Brain Salad Surgery (Four European Versions) album front cover vinyl record
ELP EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER - Brain Salad Surgery (Four European Versions) 12" Vinyl LP

For progressive rock aficionados, Emerson, Lake & Palmer's (ELP) "Brain Salad Surgery" is a landmark LP. Released in 1973, it marked the band's first foray and stands as a testament to their fusion of rock and classical influences

- Brain Salad Surgery (1979, Austria) - Brain Salad Surgery (1973, France) - Brain Salad Surgery ( 1973, Germany ) - Brain Salad Surgery (1973, UK)
ELP EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER - Self-titled (Germany & UK Versions)  album front cover vinyl record
ELP EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER - Self-titled (Germany & UK Versions)

"Emerson, Lake & Palmer" is the eponymous debut album of this British progressive rock band, released in 1970. As a first album from the newly formed supergroup, the album clearly demonstrates the variety of influences

- Self-Titled (1970, England) - Self-titled (1970, Germany)
ELP EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER - Love Beach album front cover vinyl record
ELP EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER - Love Beach

"Love Beach" was primarily a result of contractual obligations with their record company. The band had completed their previous album, "Works Volume 2", which was a double LP featuring individual contributions from each band member.

Love Beach 12" Vinyl LP
ELP EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER - Mussorgsky's Pictures At An Exhibition (Three European Versions)  album front cover vinyl record
ELP EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER - (Mussorgsky's) Pictures At An Exhibition (Three European Versions)

Mussorgsky's "Pictures at an Exhibition" is a suite of piano pieces inspired by an art exhibition of his deceased friend Viktor Hartmann. Each movement depicts a different artwork, connected by a recurring "Promenade" theme. ELP's version is a bold reimagining of the suite, incorporating rock elements, synthesizers

- Pictures at an Exhibition (1972, Germany, Island Records) - Mussorgsky's Pictures At An Exhibition (1972, Germany, Manticore Records) - Pictures at an Exhibition (1972, Netherlands)
ELP EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER - Tarkus  (Three European Versions) album front cover vinyl record
ELP EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER - Tarkus (Three European Versions)

At the helm of the recording process was the skilled sound engineer Eddy "Are You Ready" Offord. His meticulous approach to capturing the intricate arrangements and complex compositions of ELP played a crucial role

- Tarkus (1971, Germany, Island Records) - Tarkus (1971, Germany, Manticore Records) - Tarkus (1971, UK)
ELP EMERSON, LAKE  & PALMER -Trilogy  (Three European Versions)  album front cover vinyl record

ELP EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER - Trilogy (Three European Versions)

Greg Lake demonstrated his musical prowess, steering the ship of "Trilogy" into uncharted waters. The album showcased a seamless fusion of classical influences, jazz improvisation, and rock elements

- Trilogy (1972, Germany, Island Records) Trilogy (1972, Germany, Manticore Records) - Trilogy (1972, UK)
ELP EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER - Works album front cover vinyl record
ELP EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER - Works

"Works" by Emerson, Lake & Palmer is where rock’s excess meets classical ambition head-on. Each side lets a band member take the wheel—Emerson with his grand piano concerto, Lake with melodic reflections, Palmer with percussive fireworks—before reuniting for the glorious roar of “Fanfare for the Common Man.” A lavish experiment pressed in Swiss precision wax.

ELP EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER - Works Volume 2  album front cover vinyl record
ELP EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER - Works Volume 2

"Works Volume 2" by Emerson, Lake & Palmer is a 1977 vinyl LP showcasing the band's eclectic mix of prog rock, jazz fusion, and classical influences. Produced by Greg Lake and Pete Sinfield, the album features a diverse tracklist, highlighting each member’s musical prowess. It remains a testament to ELP's creative evolution in the late 1970s.

Works Volume 2 12" Vinyl LP