KING CRIMSON — Starless And Bible Black (review)

KING CRIMSON — Starless And Bible Black album cover Album · 1974 · Proto-Metal Buy this album from MMA partners
3/5 ·
Unitron
Starless and Bible Black is the sixth studio album from progressive rock band King Crimson.

I'm certainly in the minority in thinking this is King Crimson's best album, but I think this is where they finally got all of their different ideas and styles to actually work together. The band was able to mix so many styles such as hard rock, classical music, funk, and weird stuff that I don't know how to categorize, yet blend it all into one great album.

The album immediately starts rocking with the opener "The Great Deceiver", with quite a catchy riff. Yes, you read that correctly. This is a King Crimson album that actually has catchy riffs, memorable hooks, song structure, and tasty bass licks all the while maintaining the sense of experimentation that the band is known for. Even the most experimental songs, such as the closing piece "Fracture" and the title cut, have many moments where you can tap your foot to some really cool riffs.

Despite this album having no bad songs, "We'll Let You Know" is hands down the best song on the album as well as the band's best song. John Wetton's funky bass deliciousness and Bill Bruford's powerful drums are the main event in this song, with Fripp's dissonant guitar coming in as a contrast. "Lament" is another highlight, and while "The Night Watch" and "Trio" are my least favorites, they showcase the classical influence featured in an otherwise hard rocking album.

This album is unfortunately often forgotten, when I think this is the album where it feels like a full band effort and they experimented without forgetting to write songs. It wouldn't be until 2003's The Power to Believe when they would even come close to the high quality of this release. If you enjoy heavy rock with a quirky and funky twist, check this album out. Hope you found this review helpful, feel free to comment!
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