Manoeuvres

Zoo Freaks, get ready to groove with the Zoo Crew as we spin "Manoeuvres" from Greg Lake's 1983 album of the same name! This track, a pop-flavored progressive rock gem, was crafted in close collaboration with Northern Irish guitarist Gary Moore, who brought a rock-oriented edge to the song. In a 1997 interview, Lake shared that the album lacked the passion of his debut solo effort, explaining, "I was pressured into writing songs that the record company thought radio programmers wanted to hear." This push for commercial appeal left him feeling lost, as he noted in 2011, "The solo albums really lacked direction. I was lost in a way." Despite this, "Manoeuvres" stands out with its driving rhythm and Lake’s distinctive baritone, though Lake later regretted including the track "Famous Last Words" on the album, feeling it was forced by his label, Chrysalis, in pursuit of a hit single.

Another tidbit about "Manoeuvres" comes from its production context. The album featured Lake’s 1981-1983 lineup, including bassist Tris Margetts, drummer Ted McKenna, and keyboardist Tommy Eyre, alongside Moore. One song from the album, "Haunted," was co-written with Margetts and rock cartoonist Tony Benyon, adding a unique creative flair. Lake reflected on the collaborative process in a 2011 interview with Louder, saying, "Gary and I had grown very close, musically. He knew what I was after, and I leant on him quite a bit, to help get the songs right." Despite the band’s tight chemistry, Lake disbanded the group after the album’s release, with no tour or significant promotion, as he felt the public wasn’t connecting with his guitar-oriented solo work. Fans on the Emerson, Lake & Palmer (Official) Facebook group often discuss how "Manoeuvres" echoes the sound of Asia, the band Lake briefly joined in 1983, highlighting its place in his musical evolution.

Greg Lake’s journey to rock stardom began in Dorset, England, where he was born on November 10, 1947. He picked up the guitar at age 12 and wrote his first song, "Lucky Man," at the same age, a track that would later become a hit with Emerson, Lake & Palmer (ELP). By 17, Lake was a full-time musician, playing in local rock bands. His big break came when childhood friend and guitarist Robert Fripp invited him to join King Crimson as lead singer and bassist. Their 1969 debut album, In the Court of the Crimson King, was a groundbreaking success in progressive rock. Lake left King Crimson in 1970 to form ELP with Keith Emerson and Carl Palmer, cementing his legacy with hits like "Lucky Man" and "From the Beginning." His solo career kicked off with the 1975 single "I Believe in Father Christmas," which reached number two in the UK, followed by two solo albums, including Manoeuvres.

Though Lake passed away in 2016, his legacy lives on through his official website, greglake.com, where fans can explore his discography and biography. His official Facebook page remains active with tributes and updates, while the Greg Lake Official Instagram shares archival photos and memories. On X, the @GregLakeTweets account posts about his music and influence. Fans gather on the Emerson, Lake & Palmer (Official) Facebook group to share stories and celebrate Lake’s work. Additionally, Ladies of the Lake, a fan site dedicated to ELP, offers detailed insights into Lake’s career, including rare photos and interviews. Zoo Freaks, keep the vibes high and dive into Lake’s world!