Emerson, Lake & Palmer (ELP) adapted Aaron Copeland’s classical work. ELP have brought a classical piece into the rock arena making it more accessible to a modern age. The classical work was originally inspired by a Henry A Wallace speech delivered in 1942, Wallace then the Vice President of America. In this speech there is reference to a new era for the common man.

What we like

• ELP’s introduction and ending have clear reference to the original with a more up tempo modern twist

Mind experience

• In ELP’s version through what appears to be an almost improvisational piece in the centre it seems to get us lost with the core identity of the fanfare. We somehow are lead back again towards the end to be released into what is clear and true. Perhaps, ELP show that we can often get lost in the quest for justice and it isn’t as straight forward as we may think. If we were living in the music, which part of the piece would we be in now?

To think about

• Henry A Wallace – Speech – The Four Duties Pursuant to the Four Freedoms: The peace must mean a better standard of living for the common man…We must use our power at the peace table to build an economic peace that is just, charitable and enduring…

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