Octopus

'Octopus' consolidates the band's eclectic progressive rock style, merging hard rock with medieval and chamber music elements, exemplified by the complex, madrigal-like vocal polyphony of "Knots". The album's virtuosic musicianship serves lyrical themes inspired by the writings of authors like François Rabelais and Albert Camus. Marking the final appearance of Phil Shulman and the debut of drummer John Weathers, the recording is frequently cited as one of Gentle Giant's definitive and most-balanced works.