description Tarkus Overview
Tarkus is the second studio album by the English progressive rock trio Emerson, Lake & Palmer, released in 1971 on Island Records. The album's first side consists of the 20-minute title suite, a multipart work depicting Tarkus, a fictional armadillo-tank hybrid creature. The suite includes movements ranging from aggressive synthesizer-driven sections to the lyrical ballad "Aquatarkus." The album reached number one on the UK Albums Chart and was the band's first concept work.
insights Ranking position
Tarkus ranks #56 of 155 in the Progressive Rock Album ranking, behind Wind & Wuthering, ahead of Peter Gabriel (Security).
help Tarkus FAQ
What is the concept of the title track on Emerson, Lake & Palmer's album Tarkus?
The 20-minute title track depicts a fictional, evolutionary armadillo-tank hybrid creature named Tarkus. The musical suite follows Tarkus as it battles various cybernetic creatures, eventually facing off against a robotic manticore.
When was the album Tarkus released?
Tarkus was released in 1971 on Island Records. It was the second studio album by the English progressive rock trio Emerson, Lake & Palmer.
Who composed the 20-minute Tarkus suite?
The majority of the Tarkus suite was composed by the band's keyboardist, Keith Emerson. However, vocalist and bassist Greg Lake wrote the lyrics and melody for the famous acoustic ballad section inside the suite.
What record label released Tarkus in the United Kingdom?
Tarkus was released in the UK by Island Records. The album's iconic cover art, featuring the armadillo-tank creature emerging from artillery shells, was designed by the painter William Neal.
explore Explore More
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
