The title track of Islands is a melancholic trance that outlines a mood of unattainable tranquility. Sung by new bassist Boz Burrell, it’s a strikingly patient and uncluttered ballad, and one of Crimson’s most delicate moments. Elsewhere, the band seeks to provoke the senses, not least with the spiky, lurching groove of “Ladies of the Road,” which sounds like The Beatles attempting Bitches Brew. Robert Fripp’s sonic ingenuity continues to blossom on “Sailor’s Tale,” in which his sustained guitar notes melt into a small symphony of glassy groans.
Tracklisting
- Formentera Lady (9:55)
- Sailor’s Tale (7:20)
- The Letters (4:25)
- Ladies Of The Road (5:29)
- Prelude: Song Of The Gulls (4:14)
- Islands (9:14)
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King Crimson - Islands
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Release Information
| Key | Value |
|---|---|
| Format | Vinyl LP Album Reissue Remastered Stereo (200 Gram) |
| Label | Discipline Global Mobile |
| Catalog Number | KCLP4 |
| Notes | Sticker: • The original stereo mix of the 1971 classic • Newly cut from masters approved by Robert Fripp • 200-gram super-heavyweight vinyl Includes a 4-page insert. Some copies include an exclusive code for 320kbps MP3 downloads of an original 1971 vinyl transfer. The duration of track A3 differs between the booklet and the A-side label. (Booklet: 4:23; Label: 4:25) Recorded at Command Studios, Piccadilly, London. Outer cover illustration ‘Trifid Nebula in Sagittarius’ by courtesy of The Institute of Technology and Carnegie Institution of Washington Made in England. Ⓟ & Ⓒ 2014 Robert Fripp. |
| Discogs URL | King Crimson - Islands |