The new studio album by the veteran progressive rock band. Founder member Robert Fripp is still there, along with long-time guitarist/vocalist Adrian Belew with bass player Trey Gunn and drummer Pat Mastelotto (ex-Mr. Mister). The latter two also appear on the latest Californian Guitar Trio album.

After the a cappela opener of ‘the Power to Believe I’ this leads into the heavy and brooding instrumental ‘Level Five’. The AOR-ish ‘Eyes Wide Open’ follows and sounds not unlike Blue Oyster Cult when Buck Dharma takes over vocal duties. ‘Elektrik’ features nimble guitar work from Fripp and Belew, and a jazz-rock workout mid-song, before moving into heavier territory by the song’s end. ‘Facts of Life’ with it’s sinister vocal and underlying menace makes for a disturbing listening. The musicianship is superb - from the guitar to the weird and wonderful bass sounds. Drummer Pat Mastelotto puts in a fine performance as well - a far cry from his AOR days in Mr. Mister!

This latest work from King Crimson will appeal to their fans as it stretches their boundries again - never a band to be pigeonholed musically. The musicianship on the album is top rate with each song deftly constructed and it reveals more with each play. A progressive rock fans delight!

Website

****

Review by Jason Ritchie

***** Out of this world | **** Pretty damn fine |
*** OK, approach with caution unless you are a fan |
** Instant bargain bin fodder | * Ugly. Just ugly