UK, 1970, progressive rock / symphonic prog
I wonder why I don’t mind pretension. Maybe it’s because I’m pretentious? Let’s take a look at the word:
1. Claiming that or behaving as if one is important or deserving of merit when such is not the case
Does ELP behave like they deserve merit? Definitely. Is the merit undeserved? No.
2. Showing or betraying an attitude of superiority
Does ELP betray an attitude of superiority? Definitely.
3. Marked by an extravagant or presumptuous outward show; ostentatious
Is ELP extravagant and ostentatious? Definitely.
Some people roll their eyes at artistic expression they detect as pretentious, but a lot of people roll their eyes at artistic expression they do not grasp and therefore merely label it as pretentious. If you’re in the former big-brain camp, fair enough. Carry on. But if you’re in the latter group, shut up.
Museum Musica 