Adrian Belew’s ’80s King Crimson Celebration Kicks Off with All-Star Tribute
On Thursday night, Adrian Belew’s all-star tribute to ’80s-era King Crimson got underway at the San Jose Civic in California. The beat features Belew’s long-time former King Crimson bandmate Tony Levin, Steve Vai, and Danny Carey of Tool. The tribute is a celebration of King Crimson’s iconic music from the 1980s, including their albums "Discipline," "Beat," and "Three of a Perfect Pair."
The Show
The opening show featured 19 songs across two sets, including "Larks’ Tongues in Aspic (Part III)," "Elephant Talk," "Three of a Perfect Pair," "Indiscipline," and "Red" – along with the first live performance of "Model Man" by any Crimson-related band ever. The setlist is a testament to the band’s incredible musicianship and dedication to the music of King Crimson.
Tony Levin’s Perspective
Tony Levin, who has been a part of King Crimson’s lineup since 1981, shared his thoughts on the experience. "It’s amazing to hear and amazing to see," he said. "I’m a photographer in addition to being a bass player, and my temptation is to pick up the camera and take pictures of them about every 30 seconds! I have to remind myself to stick to my job and leave the photography for in-between pieces."
Steve Vai’s Challenge
Steve Vai, who has also toured and recorded with Frank Zappa, David Lee Roth, Whitesnake, Alice Cooper, Motorhead, and Joe Satriani, called King Crimson’s music "one of our historical geniuses." He explained that the challenge of playing King Crimson’s music lies in its relentless intensity and specificity. "It’s the endurance," he said. "It’s the absolute relentlessness of what he does that makes it so difficult – because it’s constant and it’s intense, and it’s fantastic."
The Legacy of King Crimson
King Crimson has had a profound impact on the music world, and their influence can be seen in many of the bands that have followed in their footsteps. Belew and Levin have been part of the band’s lineup on and off since the 1980s, and their dedication to the music is evident in their performances.
The Future of King Crimson
While King Crimson’s future is uncertain, Belew and Levin have been working on a new project that celebrates the band’s music from the 1980s. The project, which features Steve Vai and Danny Carey, is a testament to the enduring power of King Crimson’s music.
FAQs
Q: What is the name of the new project featuring Adrian Belew, Tony Levin, Steve Vai, and Danny Carey?
A: The project is called "Beat," and it is a tribute to King Crimson’s music from the 1980s.
Q: What is the significance of King Crimson’s music from the 1980s?
A: King Crimson’s music from the 1980s is considered some of the band’s best work, and it has had a profound impact on the music world.
Q: What is the challenge of playing King Crimson’s music?
A: The challenge of playing King Crimson’s music lies in its relentless intensity and specificity. The band’s music is known for its complex time signatures and intricate arrangements, which require a high level of musicianship to execute.
Q: What is the future of King Crimson?
A: While King Crimson’s future is uncertain, the band’s music continues to be celebrated and performed by fans around the world.
