About this album
Where they were
Released in 1977, 'Works Volume 1' marked Emerson, Lake & Palmer's first album after a period of intense commercial success, following their peak with 'Brain Salad Surgery' in 1973. This album showcased the band's desire for artistic exploration, featuring solo compositions from each member, reflecting both their individual talents and collaborative spirit during a transitional phase in their career.
Why it matters
The album reached No. 4 on the UK Albums Chart and was notable for its ambitious blend of genres, including classical music elements. It also faced mixed critical reception, being both praised for its creativity and critiqued for its excesses, highlighting the tensions within progressive rock during this era.
Essential tracks
- "Fanfare for the Common Man" — This powerful orchestral piece reinterprets Aaron Copland's classic, embodying the band's grandiosity and ability to merge rock with classical influences.
- "Piano concerto, No. 1, third movement: Toccata con fuoco" — A stunning showcase of Keith Emerson's virtuosic piano skills, blending classical techniques with rock energy that represents the album's thematic ambitions.
- "Pirates" — 'Pirates' stands out as an epic narrative piece that captures ELP's theatrical style and musical storytelling prowess, culminating in a dramatic soundscape.
Release Date
March 25, 1977
Artist Origin
England
Tracklist
Disc 1
- 1 Piano concerto, No. 1, first movement: Allegro gioioso 9:24
- 2 Piano concerto, No. 1, second movement: Andante molto cantabile 2:13
- 3 Piano concerto, No. 1, third movement: Toccata con fuoco 6:49
- 4 Lend Your Love to Me Tonight 4:06
- 5 C'est la vie 4:20
- 6 Hallowed Be Thy Name 4:39
- 7 Nobody Loves You Like I Do 4:01
- 8 Closer to Believing 5:34
Disc 2
- 1 The Enemy God Dances With the Black Spirits 3:17
- 2 L.A. Nights 5:42
- 3 New Orleans 2:45
- 4 Two Part Invention in D minor 1:53
- 5 Food for Your Soul 3:57
- 6 Tank 5:07
- 7 Fanfare for the Common Man 9:41
- 8 Pirates 13:16
