What does it sound like?:
King Crimson’s 1995 album is remixed as part of the band’s ongoing campaign of 40th anniversary reissues.
The CD features a new stereo mix by Messrs Fripp and Jakszyk, while the DVD adds a 5.1 mix of the original album, the 2015 mix and the 2002 mix which was originally issued as part of the 30th anniversary campaign.
Even for followers of the band this album, recorded in the band’s double trio formulation, is a complex and challenging listen.The music is powerful, indeed brutal at times, dominated by huge guitars, bass and drums, but punctuated by oddly calmer serene interludes before the barrage resumes once again.
Repeated listening brings out hidden subtleties concealed in the depths of the wall of sound, and this is certainly an album that reveals more and more of its complexities with repeated listening.
What does it all *mean*?
King Crimson’s career of pushing the boundaries is perfectly illustrated by this innovative piece of work, which sounds as fresh and ground breaking today as it did 20 years ago.
Goes well with…
If you like your music out there on the edge, this is certainly one to check out.
Release Date:
Might suit people who like…
Definitely not for the uninitiated wanting an introduction to the band – this is one for hardcore followers only, all others should approach with caution!
As Christmas is coming, should also mention that this expanded version box set is also available for the Crimson completist….
https://www.burningshed.com/store/kingcrimson/product/313/6863/
I’m excitedly awaiting the arrival of that big Thrak box this weekend. A great album, and in my house not a hardcore-only platter – there are some beautiful pop songs amongst that mighty racket.
Having witnessed the sheer brutality of The Seven Headed Beast of Crim the other month I’m not sure if the studio output is worth (re) investing in.
Might go on the Christmas present list.
I went right in at the deep end with these and saw the band live (same show Bisto was at in fact) having previously only had a passing acquaintance with their ouvre…they made a real impact on me and I’ve since been enjoying dipping into their (somewhat intimidating) back catalogue. On holiday shortly after the Salford gig I found a 2nd hand copy of the original Thrak CD and I thoroughly enjoyed it – so I can’t agree it’s only for hardcore followers – if anything I prefer it to some of the softer, more ballad-y stuff on the earlier records. I think it’s a good Crimson record for someone like me who grew up listening to noisy Indie and post punk bands (as is ‘Discipline’)
Got to love the title ‘Thrak’ as well -I wonder if it was the inspiration for Paul Whitehouse’s fictional band for Brian Pern (Throtch)