RED

This might be my favorite King Crimson album, along with Larks Tongues in Aspic. It is heavy at times, soft at others. This album is utterly amazing, and it's obvious why. This album truly represents what it means to be "progressive". This is probably one of the pinnacles of progressive music, and represents the start of math rock and even a tad bit of heavy prog or prog-metal (although Larks Tongues probably beat it to the punch).

"Red" is in my top five KC songs. It's really a simple song for progressive rock, but it is amazing in it's simplicity. That guitar line is something to behold, and in the whole tone scale? How many people can come up with an insanely addictive guitar riff.......in the whole tone scale??? Robert Fripp, a true genius, that's who. 5/5 stars.

"Falling Angel" is a great song, as well, and my personal favorite part is the saxophone that Mel Collins and Ian McDonald add to the group, something that was missing in the last few KC albums. The only song on the album that contains an acoustic guitar, it has soft points, but builds to a dramatic climax. 4/5 stars.

"One More Red Nightmare" has some of the most creative drumming that I have ever heard. Bill Bruford has some of the craftiest drum fills ever, but this song might be one of the best ones to hear them in. This song is also built around the whole tone scale (I believe, correct me if I'm wrong), and is also catchy! What can I say, Fripp knows how to make things that shouldn't be catchy....well, catchy! Great sax, as well. 5/5 stars.

"Providence" is the let down (in my opinion) on the album. A live improvisation, it truly defeats the built-up climatic energy that the first side has created. The bass line is good, but not one of Wetton's best, and the violin is weak compared to that heard on Starless and Bible Black and LTIA. 2/5 stars.

"Starless" is utterly flawless. The ending to this song is one of "those endings" that really makes sense. The repeating melody, the epic, yet simplistic two-note guitar solo provided by Fripp, almost as a joke, and Bill Bruford's very adventurous drumming makes this song one to remember. Commonly hailed as one of KC's best songs, I agree wholeheartedly and include it in my personal favorites as well. If only Fripp hadn't disbanded KC after this album.

4.8/5 stars, easily. No debate. While Providence may be a huge let down (in my opinion), the rest of the album is amazing. If I were to stress getting one King Crimson album, this would be it.

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