Carl Palmer has not one but two “super groups” to his credit.

As a founding member of Emerson, Lake, and Palmer, he defined the art of rock drumming in the 1970’s on albums like ELP’s debut, Tarkus, Trilogy, and more.

The combination of his powerful drumming, along with Greg Lake‘s guitar and vocals, and the prodigious talents of Keith Emerson on keyboards, they were both a commercial and critical success.

Moving on to form Asia in the 1980’s, Palmer achieved similar success, with a debut album that went platinum and reached the #1 position across the globe.

Palmer is putting together a small 10-date tour that will bring him to the Shea Center For the Performing Arts on the campus of William Paterson University in Wayne. Called “Welcome Back My Friend – the Return of Emerson, Lake & Palmer,” the tour incorporates Palmer and his current band with footage of Emerson and Lake from a Royal Albert Hall performance.

Carl Palmer and Jim Monaghan chat about this upcoming tour, plus some exciting news about Asia.

• Five Memorable Carl Palmer's Performances

  Carl Palmer is one of rock’s most revered drummers based upon both his studio work and live performances with ELP and Asia. Here are five of the best of his career.

• 1 - Tarkus

  The title track from ELP’s second album, many Palmer fans note this as one of his best recorded pieces.

  https://youtu.be/WKNOlDtZluU

• 2 - Lucky Man

  Although it’s Greg Lake’s guitar and voice that first grab you on this song, listen to how Palmer’s understated drumming pushes the song without overpowering it.

• 3 - Fanfare For the Common Man

  ELP’s spin on an Aaron Copeland classic, featuring some of Palmer’s best work. Again, his drumming provides a solid foundation without overtaking the rest of the performance.

• 4 - From the Beginning

  This is taken from a live performance in 1997. It’s easy to see why this song was so popular among ELP fans – a great vocal performance from Greg Lake, with just the right accompaniment from Keith Emerson and Carl Palmer.

• 5 - Heat of the Moment

  Though Asia might not have been perceived as “progressive” as ELP, they were top-flight musicians with roots in King Crimson and Yes. Palmer’s technique style is on full display in one of Asia’s most popular songs.

• BONUS TRACK

  When talking about Carl Palmer’s incredible drumming, it’s impossible to leave this one out – Karn Evil 9 1st Impression, Part 2.

  https://youtu.be/IwSTe9uit48

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