In the Wake of Poseidon cover

In the Wake of Poseidon

King Crimson · 1970

41 min · 8 tracks · progressive rock · psychedelic rock · art rock

Complex melodies intertwine with dark themes, creating a haunting landscape of progressive rock experimentation.

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Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • haunting landscapes of sound
  • dynamic progression with resolution
  • wave-like pacing and shifts
  • immersive headphone detail exploration

Maybe skip if you want

  • dislike complex melodic structures
  • prefer straightforward song formats

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — Solidified King Crimson's role in progressive rock after their debut.
Themes
jazz-infused chaos· post-1960s disillusionment· avant-garde experimentation
Career context
Released on May 15, 1970, 'In the Wake of Poseidon' was King Crimson's second album, following their groundbreaking debut 'In the Court of the Crimson King'. The band was still in its formative stage, exploring and expanding their ambitious sound while dealing with lineup changes that included the departure of guitarist Ian McDonald.
Stylistic neighbors
Yes· Genesis· Frank Zappa
If this clicks, go next to
Islands — Continues the complex soundscapes and dark themes introduced in the current album.
Sounds like this from elsewhere
Acquiring the Taste by Gentle Giant — Shares complex melodies and dark themes with intricate arrangements and progressive experimentation.
Pawn Hearts by Van der Graaf Generator — Explores haunting landscapes with a blend of dark lyrical themes and avant-garde soundscapes.
Days of Future Passed by The Moody Blues — Combines orchestral elements with progressive rock, creating a rich, atmospheric sound similar to Crimson's style.
New to King Crimson? Find your way in →

Tracklist

New here? Start with "Pictures of a City (including 42nd at Treadmill)".

  • 1 Peace: A Beginning 0:50
  • 2 Pictures of a City (including 42nd at Treadmill) Start here 8:01
  • 3 Cadence and Cascade 4:38
  • 4 In the Wake of Poseidon (including Libra's Theme) 7:58
  • 5 Peace: A Theme 1:15
  • 6 Cat Food 4:52
  • 7 The Devil's Triangle (including Merday Morn / Hand of Sceiron / Garden of Worm) 11:38
  • 8 Peace: An End 1:53

What to play next

This album is considered a Breakthrough in King Crimson's catalog. Solidified King Crimson's role in progressive rock after their debut.

Islands
Listen next

Islands

1971

Continues the complex soundscapes and dark themes introduced in the current album.
In the Court of the Crimson King
Go back to

In the Court of the Crimson King

1969

Sets the stage with foundational progressive rock elements that lead into 'In the Wake of Poseidon'.
Full King Crimson discography Where to start with King Crimson Artists like King Crimson
art rock progressive rock psychedelic rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata