This
is basically the same album as the official self-titled
release, but without the main vocals and featuring some slightly
different versions, a couple of live tracks, and guest vocals on one
song.
The
removal of vocals for the most part gives the record the advantage of
focusing on the high-level instrumental prowess of the four musical
giants involved, namely Adrian Belew on guitar, Mark King on bass,
Vittorio Cosma on keyboards, and grand master Stewart Copeland on
drums.
The
generally rigid structure of the compositions indicates that they
were designed more as “playing for singing rather than playing for
playing” (shout out to Roger Low!). Regardless, the music is
energetic and exhilarating, and the players still manage to let loose
even within the confines of the arrangements.
In
addition to being a great companion to the regular album and a
satisfying alternative for those who would prefer instrumental
versions, this is as fine an example of forward-thinking progressive
rock as any.
--Raj
Manoharan
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