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  A peak soundscape performance November 25, 2008
Written by davidfsnyder
While following the same general structure as the other soundscapes in the general time zone of this perfformance, this particular performance finds the heart of that structure and releases a fascinating interplay of tone and temperaments that is richer than others in the series.
In Time Stands Still, Mr. Fripp gives an electric guitar solo that plainly paints an aching and longing picture of great beauty.
The Queer Improv sections, more numerous (3) than on previous or following performances, provide constrastive counterpoint to the more reflective sections. The three different modalities, and the sequence in which they are chosen, form a rich mixture and fasicinating rejoinders to the more contemplative sections. The choice of tones for the solo lines, typically dual in nature, are well chosen and provide interesting and palatable sensations for the sensitive ear. I particularly enjoyed the piano/guitar, very subtle in tone and it worked well with the melodic development.
Future Shift makes good use of bell tones and other synthesized effects to transition into the awesome At The End of Time, a journey in its own right.
The ending of this release is, indeed, abrupt, but I do note that the performance barely squeezes onto an audio CD, but it does and I am grateful.
Well, a soundscape for the ages, which I will rank at the top with the World Trade Center soundscape and Mie Gakure, which are also paragons of this art form.
Broadchalk August 20, 2006
Written by millingt
Delightful. Buy this and the soundcheck. Of all the soundscape performances I have heard, this is my favorite. Everything really comes together. Of course, it is a little unsettling knowing that the performance was edited down a wee bit, but still. Very stunning.
A Clean Transaction February 4, 2006
Written by rfwhitman
More profound and beautiful music in the Soundscape series... I agree with the previous post that here Robert Fripp uncovers deeper implications of the ideas being revealed in the late 2005 performances. This may be off-topic but i hope the moderator will indulge a comment on the Soundscapes recordings for Microsoft, or direct it to its proper place. Those who appreciate Robert Fripp’s music should be glad anytime he can make, as he said, "a clean transaction" to do what he does. To my mind it’s neither "evil" nor venal to accept a check from Microsoft in exchange for doing what you do well. Money gladly released in fair exchange for good work performed, with correct intent all around, can only be good. That’s why it’s called "kosher" money. It depends upon how it is earned and then spent or shared. Obviously, the input of money lets Fripp go on making this internal, not-extremely-commercial music. If the artist can prosper doing that, there’s little reason to take the other money, for example becoming a producer for some abysmal boy band or dance act, disappearing into the black hole of the ordinary music business as many artists do. I for one am happy for Robert Fripp that he doesn’t have to face that. Partisans of this or that computer, politico, etc. shouldn’t hope to enlist their favorite artists to prove what’s best and who’s right. I won’t say that the partisanship directly damages the art ... i either maintain my protective circle, or allow it to drop...in other words, either i use a certain quiet means to deflect the intrusion, or I let it find its mark in me via my reaction. Thus the decision to be damaged or not lies with the artist. But the fans should also leave their favorite artists out of all partisanry, if that’s a word in English... Some wish the Soundscapes collaboration had been with Apple, and indeed it would have made sense, if they had asked Fripp to do it. Meanwhile, resourceful users of non-MS computers can figure out how to use a tone probe as a system sound, and have that pleasure now. Thanks again Robert, and best wishes.
In Greater Depth January 31, 2006
Written by mflaherty
This time out, Robert is not opening for a rock concert, but playing in a church as a featured performer. This gives him more time to stretch out and develop the themes in greater depth. As another reviewer notes, some of this material was played in the December Suite, but much of it is quite different here. The December Suite was an interesting set of concerts that provided us with some great performances, but this set is ultimately a more realized statement of the current Soundscapes.
Robert Fripp in Highest Form!!! January 30, 2006
Written by LouieB
Robert Fripp has begun 2006 with a bang and the proof is in his most recent performance at Broad Chalke All Saints’ Church which took place just a few weeks ago at the time of this writing. While some of the tracks from the "December Suite" are duplicated here, they are performed in such a way that they become fresh pieces of music. Also, this is a full concert length performance (79 minutes of music edited from a full 90) as opposed to the shorter performances of the "December Suite" which lasted between 35-40 minutes. This means we get to hear Fripp stretch his Soundscapes into ethereal waters which overflow with endless creation. The music of the performance captures an unintruding peaceful mood and is a lush calming landscape of sound. The three "Promenade" pieces display Fripp at his most ambient while the familiar "Time Stands Still" and "At The End Of Time" are undoubtetly the best renditions offered. The ’new’ pieces "Queer Space Whole Tone" and the dreamlike "Pastoral" show that Fripp is still not afraid to experiment with the tools and ideas at his disposal. The aforementioned "Whole Tone" piece is an excellent experiment with dark foreboding sounds that shift into shimmering lightweight atmospherics. Granted, the entire download is awesome and is continual proof that Robert Fripp still is brewing with exciting musical ideas and innovations. All of his Soundscape performances and CDs have something special to offer and this recent download is no exception. It is simply Robert Fripp at his best yet. From here, the best will do doubt get even better. God Bless You, Robert!!!
Absolutely Breathtaking January 27, 2006
Written by guitarsvenson
After downloading the Tone Probe Soundcheck of this performance I knew the full performance would not disappoint. Thank you for making such wonderful delights of musicality and for making it available to those who appreciate it.
Jan 14 2006 January 27, 2006
Written by jbricker
Really beautiful; I’m touched. This will most likely lead to further separation of me and my money. Well done, Robert!
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