What at first sounds like a strange idea, taking classic King Crimson songs and "jazzing" them up, actually works, and works wonders, in the capable hands of The Crimson Jazz Trio. Called "jazz for the progressive crowd, and prog for the jazz crowd", King Crimson Songbook, Volume One is a remarkably fun and swinging ride, put together by former King Crimson drummer Ian Wallace (he played on the Islands album), who is joined by pianist Jody Nardone and former Vital Information bassist Tim Landers. The trio tackles tunes that span the entire K.C. discography, so there's something for everyone on this eight track set.
Each rendition is a virtuoso affair with plenty of be-bob pizzaz and bouncy swing, and I dare anyone to pop this CD in and not admit to plenty of toe tapping and finger snapping, something you wouldn't normally think of doing to a K.C. song. Legendary cuts like "21st Century Schizoid Man" and "Starless" feature plenty of manic interplay, and especially from pianist Nardone, who has a delicate yet forceful touch. His gorgeous melodies and tasty delivery are a pleasure to listen to on "I Talk to the Wind", and meshes well with the nimble bass work of Landers on the funky "Catfood". Wallace is very good at alternating between powerhouse rhythms ("Red") and deft layers of coloring ("Three of a Perfect Pair"), proving his versatility quite nicely. Overall the feel on this CD is very much like some of the classic jazz albums of the 50's and 60's, especially the more piano oriented release by some of the greats like Chick Corea, Herbie Hancock, Thelonious Monk, and Horace Silver.
This is a great CD that will instantly appeal to jazz lovers, and prog rock fans who have worshipped King Crimson over the years will get a kick out of hearing these songs in a different context. Well done guys!
Track Listing
1. 21st Century Schizoid Man
2. Three of a Perfect Pair
3. Catfood
4. Starless
5. Ladies of the Road
6. I Talk to the Wind
7. Red
8. Matte Kudasai
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