DISCIPLINE

All prog fans know that the eighties was the worst decade in music. Not only did stations return to the three minute pop format, but even prog juggernauts such as Genesis and Yes succumbed to the pop atmosphere of the eighties, shattering the artistic integrity that they had cultivated the decade before. Thankfully for many prog fans, King Crimson disbanded and died far before the eighties ever came into be. But to the surprise of many, they resurfaced during that time, completely changed. But not for the worse like so many others had.

Anyone who listens to Discipline will notice a radical difference between this album and their late 60's / early 70's material. The jazz-influenced, symphonic progressive rock sound had disappeared and in its place a strange mix of new wave and experimental rock.

This new type of King Crimson was never meant to be King Crimson. This album was originally going to be the debut album of a new group formed by Fripp called Discipline, an ambitious and artistic rock band. However, the new group decided to bring back the banner of King Crimson and return to the music world.

Don't be fooled by the label of "new wave." The music is as ambitious and complex as Crimson has ever been. Not only that, but in Discipline, King Crimson is able to produce a fantastic progressive rock album without the use of keyboards. An impressive feat for any progressive rock group at that time. The songs, in comparison with their past work are incredibly catchy and accessible. Normally, this is something a prog fan is not willing to forgive, yet Crimson is able to fuse the best of both worlds here.

Most people will automatically turn to the catchiest songs on here, such as Elephant Talk or the title track. However, the masterpiece of this album is the instrumental The Sheltering Sky. Essentially an improv psychedelic-influenced piece, this song is able to create a dreamy and perfect atmosphere, yet still retain that "catchy" feel the other songs possess.

King Crimson was able to come back during the worst years of prog, reinvent themselves, and still put out a classic, showing that they are still the innovators they were when they first emerged. Easily five stars.