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April 2024

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Jakszyk, Fripp & Collins: A Scarcity of ...

Progressive Rock/Fusion

4.5/5.0

DGM
Website
by Craig Hartranft,  07.25.2011

If the principal personnel, Jakko Jakszyk, Robert Fripp, and Mel Collins do not give you a clue, then the additional appellation of "A King Crimson ProjeKt should tip off to the music within A Scarcity of Miracles. What began in 2009 as guitar improvisation sessions between Jakszyk (Level 42) and Robert Fripp (King Crimson) evolved into a larger adventure with inclusion of sax player and form King Crimson member, Mel Collins. The trio are joined by well-known bassist Tony Levin (King Crimson, Peter Gabriel and Porcupine Tree drummer Gavin Harrison.

The arrangements are dynamic and lush, the musicianship superb throughout A Scarcity of Miracles. The first four songs, A Scarcity of Miracles, The Price We Pay, Secrets, and This House are lighter fare, an ethereal mixture progressive rock and fusion. The Other Man has more weight to it, a heavier edge. Most impressive, on this song in particular, is Harrison's drumming. The album rounds out with another ethereal number which reminds that his project began in guitar improvisation. With Collins adding signature accent and improvisation, JFC defines the substance of the this work.

Normally, that would spook many a listener, even some who cherish prog, King Crimson, and others in the same manner. But A Scarcity of Miracles has both accessibility and depth. One needs only to listen with a sense of expectation, wonder and entertainment, like the first time you dared to explore jazz-rock fusion. Between the improvisational exploration and fine musicianship, A Scarcity of Miracles is uniquely intriguing. A small note, though this could be considered "headphone" music, I would advise not playing this on some shit stereo system.

Note: All Amazon advertising in this review first benefits the artist, then Craig Hartranft also receives a residual. Click, and thanks for your support.

Between the improvisational exploration and fine musicianship, Jakszyk, Fripp & Collins' A Scarcity of Miracles is uniquely intriguing.

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Three years have passed since Sweden's Cruzh dropped their second long-player, Tropical Thunder, also introducing their new singer, Alex Waghorn. Now the band returns with The Jungle Revolution ... [ Read More ]