King Crimson

Some call them psychedelic. Others label them jazz-fusion or experimental. Most, however, know them as the founding fathers of prog rock. Whatever you choose to dub King Crimson, their influence on modern acts ranging from Primus to The Mars Volta to The Fiery Furnaces is unmistakable. Their seminal 1969 release In the Court of the Crimson King is full of expert stops and starts, thunderous instrumentation and melodic vocal prowess that occasionally echoes the likes of The Zombies or The Association. Along with early releases from Yes and Genesis, King Crimson’s debut album (which clocks burns through 45 minutes in only five tracks) helped shape the burgeoning landscape of experimental rock in the late ’60s. The band has seen countless transformations over the past four decades—lineup changes have left guitarist Robert Fripp the only remaining founding member, and the band never quite matched the success or acclaim of their first album. Regardless, you have two chances to catch them at The Belcourt this weekend, and you never know when they’re going to play “21st Century Schizoid Man.” That song alone is worth the price of admission.
Sat., Aug. 2, 8 p.m.; Sun., Aug. 3, 8 p.m., 2008