A Deep Dive into King Crimson's Live Performances: The 2016 Tour and Beyond

King Crimson, a legendary band in the progressive rock genre, is known for its innovative and intricate musical styles. Their tours are highly anticipated events that attract a devoted fanbase eager to experience live renditions of their iconic albums. A notable highlight of recent concerts is the Live in Toronto 2015 album, which offers a compelling glimpse into their live performances. This article explores the band's live setlist for their 2016 tour, the band's three-drums lineup, and the superior quality of live versions compared to studio recordings.

King Crimson and the Three-Drums Lineup

One of the most intriguing aspects of King Crimson's 2016 tour is their three-drums lineup. This non-traditional setup brings a new dimension to classic songs, adding a level of complexity and intensity to the performances. The three-drums arrangement not only enriches the sound of the band but also challenges the musicians to collaborate and innovate in real-time. This unique configuration is particularly highlighted in the Live in Toronto 2015 album, which captures the band's live performances during the 2015-2016 tour.

Classic Tracks on the 2016 Tour Setlist

The 2016 tour setlist featured several classic tracks that fans and critics alike have been eager to hear. Notable performances included:

Epitaph: This track showcases the band's ability to blend complex structures with a surprising level of raw energy. The live version often retains the intricacy of the original recording while adding a layer of spontaneity and improvisation. Court of the Crimson King: A standout piece from the album Starless and Bible Black, this song benefited significantly from the live performance. The amplification of the dado riff and the intricate drumming contribute to an electrifying experience for the audience. 21st Century Schizoid Man: One of the band's most recognized tracks, originally from their debut album, sees a particularly stunning live rendition. The band's ability to maintain tight synchronization while achieving an unparalleled level of intensity is truly remarkable. Pictures of a City: Drawn from their second album, the live performance of this track demonstrates how the band evolves and enhances their original compositions. The live rendition often surpasses the studio version, showcasing the band's versatility and musicianship.

Excelsior Tours and Album Highlights

The Live in Toronto 2015 album captures some of King Crimson's best and most memorable live performances. While the title track "Excelsior" is a standout from the tour, it is important to note that certain album tracks did not feature as prominently.

From the Album 'Lizard': Songs like "Sailor's Tale" (previously from the album Smiles of a Summer Night) and the all-too-rare "Winchester Cathedral" were not included in the tour setlist.

From the Album 'Islands': The only track from this album to appear in the 2016 tour setlist was "The Letters." While "Sailor's Tale" and "The Letters" made appearances, other tracks from the album were left out.

Conclusion

King Crimson's 2016 tour showcases the band's continued dedication to pushing the boundaries of progressive rock. The three-drums lineup offers a new and exciting approach to classic tracks, while live performances often exceed studio renditions in both energy and intricacy. Fans of the band will find much to appreciate in these performances, and newcomers will likely be captivated by the band's innovative and dynamic style.