King Crimson – Lizard represents the progressive rock pioneers at their most ambitious and experimental, captured in this superb Japanese first pressing that preserves the album's intricate compositions and jazz-influenced complexity. Released in 1970 but pressed in Japan in 1972, this gatefold edition showcases the band's transitional period with a lineup featuring Gordon Haskell and Mel Collins, presented in a package that does justice to its sophisticated musical vision. The Japanese pressing reveals the album's elaborate production with stunning clarity. From the medieval-inspired opening of "Cirkus" to the epic 23-minute title suite, every intricate arrangement and complex time signature emerges with breathtaking definition. The jazz-inflected interplay between Robert Fripp's innovative guitar work, Mel Collins' saxophone, and the rhythm section benefits from the superior Japanese audio engineering. The album's fusion of progressive rock, jazz, and classical influences sounds more vibrant and intellectually engaging than ever in this excellent pressing. This copy is notable for its excellent condition that beautifully preserves the original listening experience. The gatefold cover remains crisp and vibrant, the insert is well-preserved with lyrics and credits, and the vinyl plays with warm, detailed sound that captures every nuance of this complex musical tapestry. While lacking an OBI strip, the gatefold artwork itself—featuring the striking Gini Barris painting—provides a powerful visual component that perfectly complements the album's mysterious, otherworldly atmosphere. A challenging masterpiece of progressive rock, preserved in beautiful collector's condition. DETAILED TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION Artist / Title: King Crimson - Lizard Format / Pressing: Vinyl LP - First Japanese pressing, Gatefold Label & Catalog Number: Atlantic P-8049A Year / Country: 1972 - Japan Sleeve/Cover Condition: Excellent - Age-appropriate wear, strong gatefold seams Media Condition: Excellent - Light play evidence, plays with excellent clarity Contents: Complete with original insert, Gatefold edition (No OBI) TRACKLIST Side One: 1. Cirkus (including: Entry of the Chameleons) 2. Indoor Games 3. Happy Family 4. Lady of the Dancing Water Side Two: 1. Lizard: - Prince Rupert Awakes - Bolero: The Peacock's Tale - The Battle of Glass Tears (including: Dawn Song; Last Skirmish; Prince Rupert's Lament) - Big Top COLLECTOR'S HIGHLIGHTS Rarity: First Japanese pressing in excellent condition Special Features: Gatefold edition with original insert Musical Content: Complex progressive rock featuring jazz influences and extended compositions Authenticity: Confirmed by Atlantic catalog number P-8049A 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