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Red Queen To Gryphon Three is an instrumental album consisting of four long pieces apparently inspired by a game of chess. The music has medieval/Renaissance and folk influences, with the band using bassoon, crumhorn and recorders alongside keyboards (piano, organ and synth), electric and acoustic guitars, drums and other percussion. It's quite a unique sound: primarily lilting, very melodious and, even during the parts using synth and other modern instruments, retaining a medieval feel. Lest you feel this medieval influence would be too much to bear, it's definitely Progressive Rock, albeit using some unusual instruments and themes in places. For those who like electronic keyboards, there are several bursts of synth.
Every song is 10 minutes long and could be splitted into 40 littles songs easily. The pace is always changing, the tempo is jumping constantly from folk to soft rock. Folk prog has never been this challenging.
For the progressive rock historians out there it was the success of this album which gave Gryphon the opportunity to warm up Yes on their US tour back in '74.
A freaking monster record, thick, for mature ears.
Tracklist
Side A
1. Opening Move
2. Second Spasm
Side B
1. Lament
2. Checkmate