King Crimson – Larks’ Tongues In Aspic, The Complete Recording Sessions (Panegyric, 2023)
This boxed set celebrates King Crimson’s iconic 1973 album, Larks’ Tongues In Aspic. The 2023 release titled Larks’ Tongues In Aspic, The Complete Recording Sessions is a treasure trove for fans and progressive rock enthusiasts alike. This comprehensive edition, curated with meticulous detail, offers an immersive experience that transcends time.
Rewind to July 1972, when the musical landscape was shaken by the revelation that drummer Bill Bruford (Yes) and bassist and vocalist John Wetton (Family) were joining King Crimson. Moreover, the addition of percussionist Jamie Muir and violinist David Cross further elevated the band’s profile. As Fripp’s promises of musical ‘magic’ unfolded, audiences on an extensive UK tour were treated to a bold, improvisational approach rarely seen in major rock groups. The seeds of Larks’ Tongues in Aspic were sown during these performances, captivating, and sometimes puzzling, audiences expecting something entirely different.
Fast-forward to mid-January 1973. The band entered the studio to record what would become one of King Crimson’s most acclaimed albums. Released in late March 1973, Larks’ Tongues In Aspic not only solidified the band’s reputation. The album is certainly not an easy listen. My favorite tracks are the ones with structure rather than improvised. For instance, the two versions (instrumental and with vocals) of the brief and delightful song “Book of Saturday”; and the now classic and always exquisite “Exiles,” also available in instrumental and vocal versions.
Almost five decades later, Steven Wilson took on the task of remixing the album for Dolby Atmos, introducing new stereo and 5.1 mixes that expand upon the original material’s energy.
The Dolby Atmos mixes provide a fresh perspective, unveiling the vast scope of the individual performances recorded for the album. Steven Wilson’s approach, informed by adventurous mix techniques allowed by the Atmos process, breathes new life into the music. The intricate soundscapes and interwoven series of sonic landscapes, inherent in the album, are now fully realized, thanks to evolving mix options and audio choices.
Simultaneously, Alex R. Mundy and David Singleton meticulously mixed every original studio session take, presenting unreleased early takes with maximum separation. The “Elemental mixes” offer a refreshing perspective on familiar tracks, revealing hidden nuances and unused elements. The Blu-ray I of the set features these mixes, along with extended versions of tracks like “Larks’ 1” and “Talking Drum.”
Blu-ray II takes fans deeper into the creative process, presenting every single session recording in Hi-Res 24/96 stereo. From the original studio dates, this disc unveils a vast collection of previously unheard studio material, offering a unique glimpse into the seminal recording sessions. The inclusion of the original album mix (30th-anniversary master) and the audio documentary “Keep that one, Nick” adds depth to this unparalleled collection.
The CDs, housed in a gatefold sleeve with a booklet, offer the 2023 stereo mix on CD1, while CD2 presents elemental mixes and selected master reels.
Buy Larks’ Tongues In Aspic, The Complete Recording Sessions.