King Crimson – In The Court Of The Crimson King stands as one of the most revolutionary and influential albums in progressive rock history, captured in this superb Japanese reissue that preserves the album's groundbreaking vision in exceptional quality. Originally released in 1969, this 1983 Japanese pressing captures the band's debut masterpiece in all its apocalyptic glory, presented in a gatefold edition that does justice to its monumental significance. The Japanese pressing reveals the album's innovative production with stunning clarity. From the explosive opening of "21st Century Schizoid Man" to the haunting beauty of "Epitaph," every complex arrangement and lyrical depth emerges with breathtaking definition. Robert Fripp's revolutionary guitar work, Greg Lake's powerful vocals, and the band's masterful interplay benefit from the superior Japanese audio engineering. The album's perfect fusion of classical ambition, jazz complexity, and rock power sounds more immediate and intellectually stimulating than ever in this excellent to near-mint pressing. This copy is notable for its exceptional condition, with the sleeve, insert, and OBI approaching mint perfection. The gatefold cover remains crisp and vibrant, the OBI strip is perfectly preserved, and the insert is flawless with the iconic Barry Godber artwork beautifully maintained. The vinyl shows only minimal evidence of careful play, delivering warm, detailed sound that captures every nuance of this progressive rock landmark. The legendary cover artwork—featuring the screaming face—looks particularly striking in this Japanese gatefold edition, perfectly capturing the album's themes of madness, beauty, and social commentary. The foundation of progressive rock, preserved in collector's dream condition. DETAILED TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION Artist / Title: King Crimson - In The Court Of The Crimson King Format / Pressing: Vinyl LP - Japanese Reissue, Gatefold Label & Catalog Number: Polydor 25MM 0261 Year / Country: 1983 - Japan Sleeve/Cover Condition: Near Mint to Mint - Minimal handling evidence, strong gatefold construction Media Condition: Excellent to Near Mint - Couple of very light hairlines, plays with excellent clarity Contents: Complete with original OBI strip and insert, Gatefold edition TRACKLIST Side One: 1. 21st Century Schizoid Man (including: Mirrors) 2. I Talk to the Wind 3. Epitaph (including: March for No Reason; Tomorrow and Tomorrow) Side Two: 1. Moonchild (including: The Dream; The Illusion) 2. The Court of the Crimson King (including: The Return of the Fire Witch; The Dance of the Puppets) COLLECTOR'S HIGHLIGHTS Rarity: Japanese reissue in exceptional condition Special Features: Gatefold edition with pristine OBI strip and insert Musical Content: Landmark progressive rock debut that defined a genre Authenticity: Confirmed by Polydor catalog number 25MM 0261 SALE TERMS & SHIPPING Shipping: Within 1 or 2 business days after payment Packaging: Professional, secure vinyl mailer | Record shipped outside the cover to prevent seam splits Vinyl Care: All our vinyl records are professionally cleaned with an ultrasonic machine before shipping. We also include a free outer sleeve and new inner sleeve. Shipping Areas: Worldwide Payment: Required within 3 days after auction closes ABOUT THE SELLER A passionate collector for over 30 years, my journey through music has been a lifelong adventure. With the creation of STREAMZER, I've chosen to share this profound love for music and records with enthusiasts around the world. Each record from my collection has been carefully selected, stored in optimal conditions, and handled with the respect that these musical treasures deserve. I'm delighted to offer these pieces to fellow music lovers who understand their true value. Happy bidding! Musically, Olivier