King Crimson--Three of a Perfect Pair (updated)

Back in June, I purchased a copy of the "30th Anniversary" edition of King Crimson's album, Three of a Perfect Pair.    (Even though it hasn't been literally thirty years since it's release, it is a pun based on the name of the album itself.) It is one of the most mentally challenging, difficult music works I have ever listened to. If you think I'm complaining, I am not. This is the sort of music I love--stimulating, sometimes anarchic and completely invigorating.  I like this sort of music, since it massages my mental synapses.

What is really fascinating about this recording is that it is not owned by any recording studio. The copyright is owned by Robert Fripp, and with clarity he points out how important it is for the band's images to be free from corporate influence that exists "by virtue of a 'common practice' which was always questionable, often improper, and is now indefensible."

While some Krimson fans long for the band as it was in the 70's, I feel that the addition of Adrian Belew during the 80's invigorated them to explore a progressive path with the tightness of their musical contemporaries. Such invigoration is sometimes questioned but is always appreciated by the artists concerned. I seriously doubt that the other three members would want to do without Belew's musical virtuosity and raw talent even today.

This progressive rock classic from the 80's has a more devoted following than any other album by flash-in-the-pan artists, even those who have constantly reinvented their flashiness over the decades.  Also, they are still going strong by creating work that combines creative spontaneity with a musical control that allows for odd keys and time signatures.  Three of a Perfect Pair is one of those recordings that will continue to thrill fans of intelligent, complicated music.

What really makes this release special is "The Other Side."  "The King Crimson Barber Shop" is a hilarious novelty recording that gently pokes fun at the band's image.   Also wonderful is the addition of three additional mixes of my favorite track, "Sleepless."  I especially enjoy the Dance Mix, which makes me want to dance like Elaine in  Seinfeld.  I defy anyone not to have the same physical urgings of movement while listening to this particular mix.

While some think that Three of a Perfect Pair is a lesser recording, I consider it the one Krimson work that pushes past even their own established boundaries.  To me, if art does not do such a thing, it is a stagnant and boring mess.

Three of a Perfect Pair is neither stagnant nor boring, which makes it a considerable effort from this seminal band of the Progressive Rock movement.  Most alternative artists have been affected by Krimson's work, and I'm sure this album had much to do with the music that most independent artists make these days.

©2006 Cynthia Bage