Opening with LTIA Pt IV is always going to be a risky option. There’s no opportunity to build up to one of the most demanding pieces in the KC repertoire; you have to be there right from the word go but boy, are the Crims ever there on this outing. Phew! There’s no part of this that is not astonishing - maybe the best of the tour? Who knows? But if you could bottle it, the word on the label would be: FEROCIOUS.
“Fripp for President” yells a member of the audience after a flawlessTCOL, prior to the musical manifesto that is Red. Solid and steady it proves to be a big vote winner with the punters at the Paramount.
There’s so many details both large and small to admire and marvel at in this gig. After Dinosaur, there’s a wonderfully atmospheric interlude from Fripp and Mastelotto setting up a plaintive One Hand. Lasting less than 30 seconds, it’s like chancing upon an unexpectedly beautiful gem. Ditto the gentle percolation between Elephant Talk and Cage.
An interesting development during the first improv which sounds like the beginnings of a new piece hovering in the wings. Although it doesn’t quite arrive there’s nevertheless a sense that something was trying to come through. Overall, a phenomenal gig that’s absolutely crackling with energy from start to finish.