Robert Fripp/Robert Fripp & the League of Gentlemen - God Save the King (CD)

All Music Guide

When King Crimson was on hiatus from the mid-'70s to the early '80s, guitarist Robert Fripp took a three-year break from the music industry. When he decided to return to music, he formed a new band, the League of Gentlemen. Breaking away from Crimson's trademark progressive sound, Fripp enlisted the help of Sara Lee on bass, and Johnny Toobad on drums (later replaced by Kevin Wilkinson). The trio released a total of two albums, 1980's Under Heavy Manners/God Save the King and 1981's The League of Gentlemen. The 1985 release God Save the King was a revised compilation of both releases, with additional parts added parts by Fripp. David Byrne lends his unmistakable vocal stylings to the track "Under Heavy Manners," while the trio shine on the albums remaining tracks, all instrumentals. "Inductive Resonance" contains some classic '60s keyboard sounds, while "Heptaparaparshinokh" shows off Fripp's playing at its quirkiest. The opening title track is lengthy (over 13 minutes long), but keeps your attention with Fripp's guitar constantly weaving solos over a funky, repetitive bass line supplied by Lee. A great album, which shows what a shame it is that the League of Gentlemen didn't remain together for a few more albums.

- Greg Prato, All Music Guide