Just In: Lake and Palmer reveal their favourite albums and the inspiration behind each choice.

Lake and Palmer Reveal Their Favourite Albums and the Inspiration Behind Each Choice

In a recent exclusive interview, prog-rock legends *Emerson, Lake & Palmer* (ELP) opened up about their favorite albums, sharing the personal stories and inspirations behind each choice. Known for their groundbreaking work in progressive rock, as well as their highly innovative use of classical influences, synthesizers, and jazz improvisation, the trio’s preferences offer a rare insight into the artists and albums that shaped their musical vision.

### 1. **Keith Emerson: “Pictures at an Exhibition” by Modest Mussorgsky (Arranged by Maurice Ravel)**

For Keith Emerson, the iconic keyboardist of ELP, his love of classical music is no secret. In fact, many of his band’s most famous works, such as *Tarkus* and *Brain Salad Surgery*, are rooted in classical compositions reimagined through a progressive rock lens. His favourite album is the 1922 orchestral arrangement of *Pictures at an Exhibition* by Modest Mussorgsky, famously reworked by the French composer Maurice Ravel.

Emerson cites this work as a profound influence on his approach to the synthesizer and the use of orchestral textures within rock music. “Ravel’s treatment of Mussorgsky’s *Pictures* made it an entirely different musical experience. The way Ravel was able to transform these dark, melodic pieces into something so vibrant and dynamic resonated with me deeply,” Emerson reflects. The album, which is a series of musical representations of paintings by artist Viktor Hartmann, combines dramatic orchestral movements with subtle nuances and dark moods, elements that Emerson sought to incorporate into his own playing style.

For Emerson, this arrangement provided a blueprint for how classical music could be adapted for modern instruments, specifically the synthesizer, which he would go on to pioneer in rock settings. “I always wanted to push the boundaries of what could be done with the synthesizer,” he explains. “*Pictures at an Exhibition* showed me that the line between classical music and rock wasn’t so distant. It could be bridged if you were willing to take risks.”

### 2. **Greg Lake: “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars” by David Bowie**

Bassist and vocalist Greg Lake, known for his distinct, emotive voice and his contributions to ELP’s songwriting, named David Bowie’s *The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars* as one of his all-time favourite albums. Released in 1972, the album tells the story of Ziggy Stardust, an androgynous rock star from outer space, and it is widely regarded as one of the most innovative and influential albums in rock history.

Lake describes how Bowie’s fusion of glam rock, theatricality, and futuristic storytelling resonated with his own vision for musical innovation. “I was really drawn to the way Bowie could create such an imaginative world within an album,” says Lake. “His willingness to experiment with style, persona, and sound was incredibly inspiring.”

Lake particularly admired Bowie’s ability to seamlessly blend rock with artifice and spectacle. “It was so far removed from the usual rock music of the time, which was either blues-based or riff-heavy,” he notes. “Ziggy Stardust felt like a whole new universe. It showed me that music didn’t have to be bound by traditional forms. You could create something larger than life.”

Lake also credits Bowie with being an important figure in ELP’s own development, particularly in their quest for musical and visual experimentation. The influence of *Ziggy Stardust* can be seen in ELP’s theatrical live performances, as well as their use of elaborate costumes and stage designs, which were ahead of their time for a progressive rock band.

### 3. **Carl Palmer: “Bitches Brew” by Miles Davis**

For Carl Palmer, the drummer who brought complex rhythms and jazz influences to ELP’s intricate arrangements, Miles Davis’s *Bitches Brew* is the album that stands out. Released in 1970, *Bitches Brew* is one of the defining albums of jazz fusion, melding jazz improvisation with electric instruments and rock grooves, creating a revolutionary sound that inspired generations of musicians.

Palmer’s love for the album comes from its ability to push boundaries in rhythm and structure. “Bitches Brew is a masterpiece of chaos and order,” Palmer comments. “The way Davis brought together such a wide variety of sounds, textures, and improvisation was groundbreaking. The album redefined what jazz could be, and for me, it was a perfect example of how to innovate while staying true to a genre’s roots.”

Palmer notes that the album’s complex rhythms and shifting time signatures were particularly influential on his own drumming style. “It was a revelation to hear how Davis and his band could layer rhythms and melodies, not necessarily following traditional jazz forms,” Palmer says. “It taught me that music doesn’t always have to follow a predictable pattern. It can be spontaneous, free, and yet still cohesive.”

The spirit of *Bitches Brew* can be found in the way ELP combined jazz, rock, and classical influences, particularly in their live shows, where improvisation often took center stage. “We were all fans of jazz, and Davis’ approach to improvisation was something we sought to bring into our own performances,” Palmer explains.

### Influences Beyond the Music

As these three legendary musicians reveal their favourite albums, it becomes clear that the musical tastes of Emerson, Lake, and Palmer were shaped by a broad range of genres, from classical to jazz to glam rock. Each of these albums not only inspired their technical abilities but also influenced their approach to songwriting, performance, and innovation within the progressive rock genre.

Through the albums they chose, we see the roots of ELP’s sound: Emerson’s classical leanings, Lake’s theatrical and conceptual approach to rock, and Palmer’s exploration of jazz and improvisation. Their influences helped define the sounds of the ’70s and beyond, and their work continues to inspire musicians across genres today.

As they reflect on the albums that shaped their careers, Emerson, Lake, and Palmer demonstrate that true artistry is built upon a foundation of inspiration, innovation, and a willingness to explore new musical territories.