King Crimson Edition

Went to see the Beast last week. This time it was five-headed.

How odd to walk to the doors of the Park West and see what can only be described as my brethren. They look like me and talk like me. Standing in line, waiting for the doors to open, we were next to Robert and Annie. Robert had flown in from Arizona for the concert (later inside, we sat next to a guy who came from Denver). Robert and I soon got into a conversation about the band, each knowing tidbits of history that the other one didn’t. I’m sure this same conversation was happening all around us. I must say, I’ve never been to a concert where there was so much anticipation.

The venue and band did not disappoint. No question, the second set was their finest performance to these ears. How wonderful to hear this level of playing happening in the moment. Finding the expected and unexpected: Searching, looking, making.

It’s a supergroup. But it is Adrian Belew who stands tallest. What gifts, talents, and skills. No one can watch and not be humbled.

It is also possible that these two drummers are the correct pairing in the modern version of this band. God bless Michael Giles and Bill Bruford.

I’m still vibrating from it all and this was only the warm-up for the true fortieth anniversary tour.