RED

This for me is the best King Crimson album out there. I think that it has that perfect mix of King Crimson where it's not too much (In The Wake Of Poseidon) or too little (Lizard). I love Lizard and In The Wake Of Poseidon but read topples them down easily. The only real competitor with this album is (as you may guess) In The Court Of The Crimson King, which some say defined the classic prog sound. I think songs like the classic Starless and Fallen Angel really show how heavy this album is. Some would say it's early metal which I don't completely disagree with. One More Red Nightmare and Providence are amazing songs in their own right but stacked up against the monster that is Starless they aren't overshadowed they just don't hold up as well. The bonus tracks on this album are a treat themselves. A Voyage To The Center Of The Cosmos and Providence (full version) are both some of King Crimsons' best Improv work. The improv on this album really shows what King Crimson has to offer when it comes to that world of music. The final bonus track (which is Starless live in central park) is (in my opinion) the best way to listen to Starless, seriously, if you haven't checked it out, do so.

To sum it up, Red is an essential Progrock album and should be listened to by anyone that wants to get into the genre, rather they like it or not, it's a good album to be exposed to.