King Crimson
King Crimson Performs 'The Sheltering Sky' Live in Tokyo
In December 1981, when King Crimson took the stage at the Asakusa Kokusai Gekijou in Tokyo, they were riding high on the wave of their innovative album *Discipline*, released earlier that year. This album marked a significant turning point for the band, showcasing their transformation into a new sound characterized by a blend of intricate rhythms and a more disciplined approach to songwriting—hence the title! Interestingly, *Discipline* introduced a lineup that included Adrian Belew, whose unique guitar work and vocal styles profoundly influenced the band's sound during this era. This live recording of "The Sheltering Sky" is a testament to King Crimson's complex live performances, where improvisation and structure fuse seamlessly, showcasing their pioneering spirit. It perfectly captures a band that, in that moment, was not just about playing music, but about creating an experience—an exciting slice of their artistic evolution.