King Crimson Manager Provides Clarity on Future Album Release

King Crimson’s loyal fans may have to temper their excitement as manager David Singleton has emphasized that reports of a new studio album in the works are jumping the gun. Even though recent statements by Jakko M. Jakszyk, the band’s vocalist and guitarist, seemed to confirm the album, Singleton has clarified that the situation is more uncertain than fans may think.

In a recent update, Singleton delved into the status of recordings from the most recent iteration of the band. He recalled a conversation with the late Bill Rieflin, where Rieflin questioned the need for a studio album given the plethora of live recordings already available. However, the unique possibility of creating a completely new sound driven by the group’s three drummers led to the recording of their parts in the studio, each separately to ensure perfect separation. While these recordings exist, there is no concrete guarantee that they will result in a full album or see the light of day as something entirely different, given the uncertainty of any creative process. Singleton advised caution against getting too hyped about a new album as assumptions about its imminent release may be premature.

Despite Singleton’s tempered stance, Jakszyk’s remarks in a recent Goldmine Magazine interview were less ambiguous. He revealed that King Crimson is indeed working on a studio album. The project has been pieced together over time and recently received approval from management to move forward towards a potential release in the future, although no specific timeline is set in stone.

Should the album come to fruition, it will mark King Crimson’s first full-length studio release since 2003’s “The Power to Believe.” The record is expected to feature the band’s most recent lineup, an eight-piece group that includes iconic figures like Robert Fripp and Tony Levin. This lineup received critical acclaim during their tours from 2014 to 2021 for their energetic reinventions of classic tracks and the addition of new compositions into their repertoire.

In addition to the studio album, fans can anticipate a reissue of “A Scarcity of Miracles,” the 2011 collaborative project between Fripp, Jakszyk, and Levin. This reissue will contain previously unreleased material, alternate takes, and a treasure trove of bonus content. Jakszyk also hinted at plans for the release of archived live performances. However, the return of King Crimson to the live stage remains uncertain, especially in light of Fripp’s recent health concerns.

In conclusion, fans of King Crimson can look forward to the potential release of new material, but should heed Singleton’s warnings about managing expectations as the creative process is unpredictable. While a new album is in the works, uncertainties remain as to when it will be completed and how it will be perceived. For now, supporters can revel in the history of the band’s musical journey and await future announcements with cautious optimism.