Tarkus: Life Changing Music

Published by Stephen Milward in Culture · Sunday 04 Jan 2026 · 2 minutes
Tags: Tarkus, Emerson, Lake, and, Palmer, music, progressive, rock, album, review, classic, rock, musical, influence, 1970s, music, rock, history

I'd been going out with Denise for six weeks when she gave me a Christmas present in 1972. That was Emerson, Lake and Palmer's 'Tarkus' album (Wiki). The first thing that stuck me was the colourful artwork, with it's depiction of Tarkus, a cross between an armadillo and a tank, produced by William Neal (Wiki, Website). It gave an indication of what the music contained and I approached it in great anticipation.

Tarkus Album Cover Art: William Neal (used with permission)

Released in 1971, the Tarkus concept piece (Wiki) that fills side one is now one of the best known pieces in progressive rock music, and for good reason. It mixes power with subtlety, technique, complex times and melodic flow, with a powerful climax. The effect it had on me was profound. I was 15 years old, wanted to be a music teacher and Tarkus reaffirmed that conviction. It seems almost weird to write about it, since the best way to experience the music is to listen to it (Spotify Amazon Music). It's influence on me continues today and I can only recommend that you listen to it.

Here's Emerson, Lake and Palmer performing Tarkus live.

Here's the version by Jordan Rudess, which in my opinion pays great respect to the original.