DISCIPLINE

King Crimson are among the progressive bands that remained innovative and interesting in the 80s, with the days of jazzy and chaotic musical tornadoes seemingly gone, as the band's lineup is highlighted by two new additions, alongside mastermind Robert Fripp and the other remaining member from the previous band incarnation, Bill Bruford: guitar extraordinaire Adrian Belew (previously playing for Zappa and Bowie) and bassist and stick player Tony Levin (playing for Peter Gabriel) come on board for the eighth studio album by the collective - 'Discipline', released in September of 1981; some seven years after they last released the masterpiece 'Red'. During these years, the band members had been busy working as guest musicians or releasing solo and collaborative albums, all quite different from the 70s King Crimson output.

Unsurprisingly, the sound of the first few seconds of 'Discipline' is shockingly different from where the band left things off with 'Starless', the final track on 'Red'. The album kicks off with 'Elephant Talk', a very Talking Heads-ish composition that immediately introduces the all-new identity of the band, with a sound that is absolutely unrelated to any of the music released previously by them. The new direction is truly an 80s one, with the new wave aesthetic penetrating the Court of the Crimson King, resulting in a more artsy and even dance-rock sound, topped by the playful and humorous lyrics of Belew; Each composition is so impressive and modern-sounding, that it leaves one wondering how could this band still be so original and forward-thinking after everything they had already done the previous decade. And the conclusion is quite obvious, shared by many, including myself: King Crimson is the best band to represent the progressive rock genre ever.

'Discipline' offers seven new songs, two of which are instrumentals, and it can be safely said that this is not only one of the most addictive King Crimson albums ever, but it is also one of the most groundbreaking releases of the whole decade, recognized by fans and critics alike, as a masterpiece and a mammoth new achievement for the band that never seizes to amaze. It is pointless to point out specific highlights, when the whole album is a highlight of its own; a record that should be listened front-to-back, and explored carefully, because you never know what sound will come out the next time you hear it; Still, one of the most important pros of 'Discipline' is the fact that it is utterly enjoyable, and has an unprecedented appeal!