Easy Money

The Zoo Crew is thrilled to spin "Easy Money" by King Crimson from their groundbreaking 1973 album Larks' Tongues in Aspic for all you Zoo Freaks out there! This track, the fourth on the album, was crafted in a unique, piecemeal fashion. Guitarist Robert Fripp penned the verses, while bassist and vocalist John Wetton later added the chorus, resulting in a dynamic, almost episodic structure that shifts from a brooding, dirge-like opening to explosive rhythmic bursts, thanks to the percussion work of Bill Bruford and Jamie Muir. Fans on Radio Paradise have raved about its inventive quality, with one listener noting the "gradual improv in the middle" and Wetton’s powerful vocal return as a moment that "shreds your wallpaper." The song’s live performances, like the fierce version from the 1973 Midnight Special broadcast, showcased a shortened but no less intense rendition, with the band’s telepathic improvisation earning praise for its high standard, as Wetton himself reflected in the 2012 reissue liner notes.

Another tidbit that makes "Easy Money" stand out is its subtle nod to Pink Floyd’s "Money," both released in 1973. According to a Rock and Roll Globe article, the track carries a faint echo of Floyd’s cash register groove, and the maniacal laughter closing the song mirrors the chortles in Floyd’s "Brain Damage." The lyrics, penned by Richard Palmer-James, paint a vivid picture of sleazy opportunism, with lines like “Your admirers in the street / Got to hoot and stamp their feet” delivered over Wetton’s gritty vocals and a nasty, memorable bass line. On X, the official King Crimson account once shared a post about a 1974 improvisation between "Exiles" and "Easy Money" during a gig in Asbury Park, highlighting the band’s knack for weaving this track into their live experimental tapestry. Fans on Progarchives call it a classic, with one reviewer recalling the “annoying yet great” guitar sound that hooks you from the start.

King Crimson began in London in 1968, founded by guitarist Robert Fripp and drummer Michael Giles, alongside Greg Lake on bass and vocals, Ian McDonald on woodwinds, and lyricist Peter Sinfield. Their debut album, In the Court of the Crimson King (1969), is widely credited with birthing progressive rock, blending jazz, classical, and psychedelic influences into a bold, theatrical sound. Fripp, the band’s constant visionary, drew from his early experiences playing in Bournemouth with the Giles brothers, where he honed a disciplined yet experimental approach to guitar. After the original lineup dissolved post-debut, Fripp navigated a series of shifting lineups through albums like In the Wake of Poseidon and Lizard, each refining the band’s eclectic edge. By 1973, the Larks' Tongues lineup—featuring Wetton, Bruford (fresh from Yes), David Cross, and Jamie Muir—marked a new peak, embracing free improvisation and modernist classical influences, as noted on Wikipedia. This era solidified Crimson’s reputation as a fearless, ever-evolving force.

For all you Zoo Freaks wanting to dive deeper, check out King Crimson’s official website for news, tour dates, and archival releases. Connect with the band on Facebook, Instagram, and X for updates and behind-the-scenes gems. Fans can join vibrant discussions on the King Crimson Fans Facebook group, a hub for sharing memories and rare finds. For more in-depth exploration, Elephant Talk, a long-running fan site, offers a treasure trove of articles, interviews, and discographies. Keep rocking with the Zoo Crew, and let’s keep the Crimson vibes flowing!