Emerson, Lake & Palmer - Works, Volume I (Japan SHM-CD) (2008)

Of all the popular progressive rock groups of the '70s, Emerson, Lake and Palmer were the most bombastic and technically orientated. By 1977, they had become so wrapped up in themselves (individually) that they put out a double album with each member getting a side to his own. They shared the remaining side. Keith Emerson plays a Steinway grand piano along with the London Symphony Orchestra. Greg Lake sings some rather sappy ballads (nothing as fun as "Lucky Man," unfortunately). And Carl Palmer contributes a selection of drum-heavy fusion pieces. When the trio reconvene, they tear into Aaron Copland's "Fanfare for the Common Man" (you know, that music from the Olympics) and deliver a long, meandering song called "Pirates" that shows off what they did best--play classically inspired rock with wild synthesizer sweeps and Lake's sweet voice. This isn't the album for an ELP neophyte. Try Brain Salad Surgery or The Best of... for a proper introduction. --Larry Crane