King Crimson vs. Rush - 1970's

Which of these bands do you prefer from their 70's music? Yes, 1969 is included.

Both bands were founded in 1969, though King Crimson began releasing albums immediately, and saw moderate success early from their debut album. However, they almost fell apart completely over the next couple years due to member disinterest, and after multiple lineup changes, they then found success again with 'Larks' Tongues in Aspic' and later 'Red'. However, King Crimson then disbanded in 1974, and we would see nothing more from them in this decade.

Studio Releases - In the Court of the Crimson King, In the Wake of Poseidon, Lizard, Islands, Larks' Tongues in Aspic, Starless and Bible Black, Red

Rush on the other hand got off to a slower start. They didn't release their first album until 1974. Also unlike King Crimson, they had one lineup change, and they've been set since then. With the initial bluesy sound, followed by the dabbling in progressive styles, Rush finally broke through with '2112' in 1976, and followed it up with their two proggiest albums, 'A Farewell to Kings' and 'Hemispheres'.

Studio Releases - Rush, Fly by Night, Caress of Steel, 2112, A Farewell to Kings, Hemispheres


Edited by Metalmarsh89 - November 20 2013 at 01:17

KC by a smidge

Eria Tarka wrote: Three years ago I would have said Rush without any hesitation, but I gotta go with KC on this one. Their material was so much more varied, and overall more interesting to my ears. Not to mention that I've been feeling rather cold towards the early Rush albums over the past couple of years.  These bands 80s material would be a much closer match-up for me.

That's the sequel to this poll.

Fripp any day

King Crimson. But it's not so easy to decide for me. I absolutely love Rush from 2112 onward (2112 was the first album from them I heard back in 1981 or so and it got me immediately). But in fact, KC music has more colours and sparks in itself (although technically Peart with Lee are unbeatable IMHO).

King Crimson hands down. I adore some scattered Rush tunes from their 70s albums as well as the whole CoS record, but KC made entire releases that I'm absolutely crazy about during the same time.

I can't think of any band that I appreciate more than Crimson.

Guldbamsen wrote: King Crimson hands down. I adore some scattered Rush tunes from their 70s albums as well as the whole CoS record, but KC made entire releases that I'm absolutely crazy about during the same time.

Crimson. 

Rush, easily.