The Crimson Jazz Trio Reinvents King Crimson Songbook

By I Nov. 2, 2005

The King Crimson Songbook: Volume 1 by The Crimson Jazz Trio (CJ3) is a unique addition to the King Crimson concept.

While on tour with the 21st Century Schizoid Band, King Crimson drummer Ian Wallace came up with idea for the trio. “I thought it might be fun to rearrange some of Crimson material in a jazz format,” said Wallace. The trio members include Wallace on drums, Jody Nardone on piano and Tim Landers on bass.

Pianist Jody Nardone is a former member of the Rod McGaha quartet and is currently on staff at the Currey Ingram Academy in Tennessee. The man on bass, Tim Landers, writes for television, film and other recording projects, and was also a founding member of the group Vital Information. The three men brought their individual talents together and created a songbook that celebrates jazz.

The CD was released on Sept.27 through the Voiceprint label and delivers jazz remixes of classic King Crimson songs like “21st Century Schizoid Man,” “Red,” and “Three Of A Perfect Pair.

King Crimson founder, composer and guitarist, Robert Fripp approves of the jazz reinvention of his songs. “The CJ3 have respectfully and irreverently taken eight Crimson classics, repositioned them in the musical spectrum, and delivered their first songbook with superb musicianship in service to wit and invention,” Fripp said.