King Crimson - Lizard [ Vinyl ]

King Crimson's Lizard isn’t just an album—it’s a surreal, jazz-rock fever dream. Released in 1970 as the band’s third studio effort, this record takes a daring detour from the symphonic prog of In the Court of the Crimson King into more experimental, avant-garde terrain.

With only Robert Fripp remaining from the original lineup, Lizard stands as a bold reinvention fueled by jazz virtuosity, ornate compositions, and cryptic lyrics.

Opening with the haunting “Cirkus,” the album immediately plunges into shadowy textures and shifting time signatures, setting the tone for what’s to come. “Indoor Games” and “Happy Family” push the boundaries even further, with Keith Tippett’s free-form jazz piano and Mel Collins’ swirling woodwinds adding chaotic beauty. Jon Anderson of Yes even makes a guest appearance on the title suite, lending his ethereal vocals to the 23-minute epic “Lizard.”

The album is infamous for being both challenging and mesmerizing—a record that splits listeners but rewards those who dive deep. This edition preserves the lush, layered production that makes Lizard such a sonic labyrinth. It's jazzy, it’s weird, it’s theatrical, and it’s 100% unapologetically King Crimson.

For fans of cerebral prog rock or anyone looking to explore Crimson’s more eccentric side, Lizard is a must-spin. It's not just music—it's an experience.