erlkoenig

Originally issued privately in 1973, Erlkoenig’s only album is an inventive example of early German symphonic progressive rock. Dominant keyboards, prominent electric guitar and occasional English-language vocals shape music that moves between stately melodic themes, psychedelic passages and extended instrumental development.

The group’s sound is particularly effective on the longer “Thoughts” and “Divertimento,” where organ-led arrangements unfold through contrasting moods and shifting dynamics. The original six-track album is supplemented here by four previously unreleased recordings, offering a broader view of a talented band whose work remained largely unknown outside collectors’ circles for many years.

Track listing

1. Erlkoenig Impression – 6:20
2. Tomorrow – 5:02
3. Thoughts – 9:31
4. Castrop-Rauxel – 7:13
5. Blind Alley – 5:07
6. Divertimento – 8:04

Bonus Tracks

7. The Lad in the Fen – 7:30
8. Love Is Truth – 2:30
9. Run Away – 3:10
10. Monday Morning – 4:51