Emerson, Lake & Palmer – Tarkus

Emerson, Lake & Palmer – Tarkus

Tarkus is one of the defining albums of the progressive rock era and a landmark release from British supergroup Emerson, Lake & Palmer. Released in 1971, the album cemented the band's reputation as one of the most ambitious and technically accomplished acts of the genre, combining classical influences, virtuosic musicianship, and imaginative songwriting.

The first side is dominated by the epic seven-part suite Tarkus, a groundbreaking progressive rock composition that tells the surreal story of an armadillo-tank hybrid locked in fantastical battles. Driven by the extraordinary keyboard work of Keith Emerson, the powerful vocals and songwriting of Greg Lake, and the dynamic drumming of Carl Palmer, the suite remains one of the most celebrated achievements in progressive rock history.

Side two offers a diverse collection of shorter pieces that further showcase the band's range. Highlights include the ragtime-inspired Jeremy Bender, the complex and energetic Bitches Crystal, the majestic The Only Way (Hymn), and the powerful A Time And A Place. The album closes with the light-hearted rock and roll tribute Are You Ready Eddy?, dedicated to producer Eddie Offord.

Praised for its creativity, technical brilliance, and adventurous spirit, Tarkus remains an essential recording for fans of progressive rock and one of Emerson, Lake & Palmer's most enduring masterpieces.

Tracklist:

Side A – Tarkus

1. Eruption
2. Stones Of Years
3. Iconoclast
4. Mass
5. Manticore
6. Battlefield
7. Aquatarkus

Side B

1. Jeremy Bender
2. Bitches Crystal
3. The Only Way (Hymn)
4. Infinite Space (Conclusion)
5. A Time And A Place
6. Are You Ready Eddy?