Tony Levin confirms that the reformulated King Crimson — after a lengthy layoff — is here to stay. The band, which just released a live album documenting its 2014 U.S. reunion date at the Orpheum in Los Angeles, is eyeing a tour into Europe and even considering original material.
“I’m thrilled that King Crimson is back doing stuff,” Levin tells Vintage Rock, “and doubly thrilled that I’m in it — although, as a fan of the band, I would be happy even if I wasn’t in it. It seems like every year we’re going to do something. Not the whole year, but the fall or at least a part of the fall. And it is on the table, the possibility that we’ll come up with some new music — and maybe, eventually, a new album. That would be great.”
Band leader Robert Fripp, who had been partially retired more recently, surprised many with a 2013 announcement that the group would return — and in an entirely new, three-drummer format. King Crimson’s most recent studio effort, Power to Believe, dates back to 2003.
“King Crimson — mainly because of the inspiration of Robert Fripp, the founder — doesn’t do things the way other bands do,” Levin adds. “He tries to do things the right way, the way he thinks is the right way. So, there have been many different incarnations — and each one does not try to copy the ones before. I know, I’ve been in it since 1981, and they’ve been very different.”
As for what will follow Live at the Orpheum, which arrived on January 20, 2015, Levin says the details are still emerging. But King Crimson is back for good. “We are talking about, and really planning to tour next fall again,” Levin says. “It’s looks like not in the U.S.; it’s look like other places, Europe. But it’s kind of silly to say at this point, because things could change. But just generally, Europe plus more.”
In the meantime, Levin is also planning a series of East Coast dates with his brother Pete and a newly formed jazz band. The pair recently released a terrific self-titled project as the Levin Brothers.
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