"ProjeKct One Live at the Jazz Cafe" is a captivating album that showcases the experimental and improvisational side of King Crimson. Released in 1997, it is part of a series of releases under the ProjeKcts moniker, featuring various configurations of King Crimson members exploring new musical territories.
The album captures a live performance at the Jazz Cafe in London, where ProjeKct One—consisting of Robert Fripp on guitar, Trey Gunn on touch guitar, and Bill Bruford on drums—delivers an exhilarating display of creativity and musicianship.
The tracks on the album are all improvised, displaying the band's ability to seamlessly communicate and respond to each other's musical cues. The musicians embark on sonic explorations, delving into complex rhythms, dissonant harmonies, and intricate melodic passages.
The opening track, "Cage," sets the tone for the album with its brooding, atmospheric introduction before launching into an energetic and complex musical journey. The interplay between Fripp's intricate guitar lines, Gunn's inventive touch guitar work, and Bruford's precise drumming creates a dynamic and captivating sonic landscape.
Throughout the album, the musicians display an impressive level of technical proficiency and creativity. The music constantly evolves and morphs, taking unexpected turns and exploring new sonic territories. Moments of intense, blistering energy contrast with introspective and atmospheric passages, creating a sense of tension and release.
One standout track is "Masque," which showcases the band's ability to seamlessly blend different musical elements. It transitions from mesmerizing ambient textures to rhythmic grooves and incorporates Fripp's signature soundscapes, creating a captivating and immersive listening experience.
The production quality on the album is excellent, capturing the intricacies of each instrument and allowing the listener to fully appreciate the nuances of the improvisations. The live setting adds an extra layer of energy and spontaneity, making it feel like an intimate and immersive concert experience.
"ProjeKct One Live at the Jazz Cafe" is a testament to the musical chemistry and adventurous spirit of King Crimson members. It serves as a reminder of the band's willingness to push boundaries and explore new musical horizons. For fans of King Crimson or those intrigued by experimental and improvisational music, this album is a must-listen. It offers a unique and captivating journey into the minds of virtuosic musicians pushing the boundaries of their craft.
"4 i 1" –
6:11
"4 ii 1" –
3:29
"1 ii 2" –
4:27
"4 ii 4" –
7:28
"2 ii 3" –
4:27
"3 i 2" –
8:14
"3 ii 2" –
6:32
"2 ii 4" –
4:27
"4 i 3" –
4:32
Tony Levin – bass, Stick, synth
Trey Gunn – Warr Guitar
Bill Bruford – drums, percussion
Robert Fripp – guitar
Ronan Chris Murphy – mixing, editing
