Emerson, Lake, and Palmer

This handsome new vinyl box collects a dozen seven-inch, two-sided singles culled from Emerson, Lake, and Palmer's U.K. and international discographies. Why release a bunch of edited versions from one of the world's most highly regarded prog groups, well known for ambitious and extended compositions?  In his foreword, Carl Palmer notes that the idea for this collection originated with him: "The music that you will hear opened the door to radio around the world, and then the musical concept of ELP was born."

Sid Smith's liner notes in the enclosed 16-page booklet explain that Keith Emerson, Greg Lake, and Carl Palmer all had roots in singles pop, and understood the value of "the song" in the context of their lengthy and intricate works.  The taste of ELP provided on their singles - melodic and as tight as possible - turned on many listeners to the full-length albums; as assembled here, they offer a sampler of the full dish.

Beginning with Greg Lake's timeless ballad "Lucky Man" b/w "Knife-Edge" (1970, No. 48 U.S.) and concluding with Lake and Geoff Downes' "Affairs of the Heart" b/w "Better Days" (1992), Singles features twelve key 45s - all remastered by Andy Pearce and Matt Wortham, featuring the original single mixes and edits - with replicated original picture sleeve artwork and modified labels (for instance, the original Atlantic logo is missing on the "Fanfare for the Common Man" single though the color scheme is utilized).  Each single is pressed on a different color of vinyl.  These replicas are complemented by a collection of suitable-for-framing companion art cards with art elements of the single sleeves.  Everything is housed in a sturdy, attractive box with a lift-off lid.

As it isn't a complete survey of ELP on 45, Singles isn't so much an alternative history of the band as it is a delicious sampler platter in three-minute (or so)-sized bites.  In the best way possible, it leaves you wanting more. (Now can we have a CD release, please?)