STARLESS AND BIBLE BLACK

Well. Never been a MASSIVE fan of King Crimson, but I do like them and own several albums. This has turned out to be a favourite! It is perhaps one of the most listenable 'early' albums. John Wetton's voice is pleasant and Robert's electronics and guitar work are impressive and innovative. But the album is not without it's flaws...

The Great Deceiver is a hard, rockin' opener with a...whats this? A discernible melody line in a King Crimson song!? Wow. It's a great rocker with all the complexity of prog. Quietens down, turns into a strangely syncopated drum and bass work with John Wetton singing in a distressed voice. Good song! You'll love it instantly. Cigarettes, Ice Cream...10/10

Lament is exactly what the title of the track says. But it all changes a bit into the song...becoming a frantic, schizoid song with distressing vocals and frantic guitar work. And clapping...if only it had stayed how it was. The only thing keeping it together is Bill Bruford's steady drums and John Wetton's creeping bass. Ends nicely. 8/10.

We'll Let You Know is a stop-start funk track with wah guitar and funky bass. Not bad. No vocals. 8/10.

The Night Watch is, after 1 and a half minutes of silly noises, a rather pleasant ballad with a very...ahem catchy chorus. Nice song though. The first song I heard off this album. 9/10

Trio is a strange, orchestral piece played on what I think is the violin, mellotron and bass guitar. Very interesting, quite melancholy. EDIT: It's actually quite beautiful. 9/10.

The Mincer is a weird, eerie song with strange spooky mellotron sounds and weird choppy dissonant guitar. This track just scares me... 7/10.

Starless And Bible Black, the tile track, is a strange, ambient track with only rare moments of melody. Makes an interesting listen. If anyone could tell me what the title means I would be grateful! 8/10.

Fracture is an equally strange song with cool guitar effects. Honestly, these last 2 tracks need to be heard to be believed! 9/10.

Wonderful album, my favourite at the moment!