Recorded at the start of 1973, “Larks’ Tongues In Aspic” marked the studio debut of King Crimson’s third live lineup. The band had been together since the summer of the previous year, with founder member Robert Fripp joined by Bill Bruford (from Yes), John Wetton (from Family), Jamie Muir & David Cross. A short tour of Germany in October 72 was followed by an extensive UK tour in Nov./Dec as featured in last year’s complete recordings boxed set. By the time the album was recorded, the band was well rehearsed with a strong set of material. Muir quit shortly after completing the recording sessions leaving Crimson with its most stable & influential lineup of the decade – a lineup that would cement the band’s reputation as one of rock’s foremost recording & performing outfits.
Most of the material on the album quickly became established as part of the live set with tracks like the title track & ‘Talking Drum’ often becoming the start points/springboard for the improvisations integral to Crimson’s performances.
‘Larks’ Tongues II’ was one of the few pieces of the era to be performed regularly by the 80s lineup & also became a favourite of audiences & band alike for the double trio Crimson lineup of the 90s.
Larks’ is the first part of a trilogy that also encompassed “Starless & Bible Black” & “Red” – a body of work that still sounds remarkable some 40 years later. The albums have been consistent sellers from the point of release through to the present day.