ISLANDS

Grotesquely underrated masterpiece from KING CRIMSON which in my opinion takes the best elements from their previous 2 albums mixing the lyrical style of "Poseidon", and the orchestration and improv found on "Lizard". I have always been amazed at "Islands" profound musical extentions and emphasis on experimentation with its extended compositions. Critics harsh opinins on "Islands" seem to be mostly focused on the poor and inadequate lead singing of Boz Burrel (BAD COMPANY). In contrast my opinion is that Boz is more than adequate and offers a nice change from Mr. Wetton and actually gives "Islands" a different feel and identity than previous albums. "Islands" emphasizes its creators brilliance (Robert Fripp & Peter Sinfield) who were a very creative and "progressive" duo as demonstrated here. KING CRIMSON here rely heavily on classical instrumentation without ever getting too dominant. Guest musicians bring a nice musical influence with piano, vocal soprano, oboe, Cornet and string bass. This album also shows Fripp's Mellotron playing at it's best, along with his arrangement and composition skills. The standout for me is Fripp's use of the Mellotron (not to mention the 'ol guitar work). All in all this is a great recording and for me stands out as a great contribution to the wonderful world of progressive rock.