IN THE WAKE OF POSEIDON

Over the years both critics and the audience were split over the role this album had in CRIMSON's catalogues. Some strongly criticised its lack of originality and heavy similarity with the previous, remarkable debut "In The Court...". Other tried to be more in favor of "Poseidon", saying that if the formula was good on the first why should they change on the second album.

No doubt, when you listen to "Pictures of the City" or "Cadence and Cascade" you will surely think of "Schizoid Man" or "I Talk to the Wind" respectively. However, it must be noted that "Poseidon" is not just a copycat of "In The Court", but is a well-made album in its own right. Despite the line-up changes, Gordon Haskell seems to offer a solid replacement to Greg Lake as vocalist. Maybe not on par with phenomenal debut (after all it does sound similar in many moments), "Poseidon is still a strong musical statement of Fripp and Co. In addition Keith Tippet's piano work on "Cat Food" contains indication of where their sound would evolve in the next albums, starting from "Lizard", exploring avant-garde jazz territories.

Highly recommended album, but if you are young prog fan please do start with "In the Court of the Crimson King".