ISLANDS

Perhaps it's because it was the first Crimson album I heard but I've always had a soft spot for this one.It may not have any of the edginess or innovation of the other albums, but it has way more heart and , in a very English way, soul. My brother asked me to check out the guitar solo on 'Sailor's tale' but my 12 year old mind was blown away before I even got there and I was hooked on this band's unique style for ever. Even Formentera Lady, usually most critics example of prog excess, has a laid back, chilled feel that can be hypnotic. As for the rest: Sailor's Tale one of only 2 tracks Crimson did that sounds better in the studio than live (the other being Starless on Red), 'The Letter' is trad crim, 'Ladies of the road', though somewhat mysoginist by today's standards, reminds their critics that Crim have always had an earthy sense of humour behind the apocalyptic visions and the last 2 tracks I find myself coming back to again and again like a favourite childhood memory.By the way, check out the incredible guitar solo in Sailors Tale!