LOVE BEACH

"Love Beach" is one of the most underrated albums. Group confess that recording this one was the hard experience, and no one of the ELP members really wants it. Yes, for sure, it is always a bad situation, when the record label is enforcing the artists to make something new, if they haven't got an inspiration, BUT in my opinion the effects of their work isn't so bad, as usualy people think. The first side contains five Greg's songs, which lyrics are rather simply, but melodies are kind, and sounds much better (especially "Taste of my love", and "For You") than the compositions, which he will be singing in the near future with Gary Moore. Also Emerson's/Lake"s "The Gambler" is typical light ELP song, very comparable to "Benny the bouncer", "The Sheriff", or "Jeremy Bender" from the previous LP's. "Canario" and Keith's/Sinfield's long one "Memories of an officer and gentleman" are interesting propositions for any ELP fan. Why the "Love beach" is so hated LP? First of all: It was realesed after the weak Works vol II, which includes many outtakes. For the second, it is a true, that this album isn't so good, as the legendary older ones. Moreover, in the late seventies there was a change (I think for the worst) in the musical styles, and ELP, was recognized as a dinosaur. For the last: the terrible cover and pop beginning leaves for long a bad impression (also on me "some time ago"). Few words about members: Carl Palmer is disappointment. His drumming is getting worst on the studio albums from this one. He - from "Love beach" - will play more economically and will sound too loud. Keith Emerson is playing quite good, but his keys was greatest on the "ELP", "Tarkus" and "Brain Salad Surgery" albums. Greg's voice is fantastic here! He is one of the greatest vocalists, but "Love Beach" shows his highest form. To sum up: don't be afraid to put your headphones on. All the best from Gdansk, Poland.