ABSENT LOVERS - LIVE IN MONTREAL, 1984

As engmatic a band as King Crimson were as of 1984, this 2 CD set, which culls live material from their Montreal shows in the summer of 1984, is incredibly cohesive, and it gives a tremendous historical perspective. With some astounding performances, Belew, Bruford, Fripp, and Levin blaze through a set that is comprised mainly of 1980's era Crimson (i.e. "Discipline", "Matte Kudasai", "Three of a Perfect Pair", "Heartbeat" ). However, they show their chops on the classic Crimson tunes "Red" and "Larks Tongues In Aspic Part II". It is a snapshot of a band peaking yet again in a new era, one that truly understands who it is, with tremendous reverence for who it once was. Absent Lovers is essential for King Crimson fans and progressive rock fans alike, and it receives the highest of recommendations.