David Cross
Closer Than Skin

For those who might not know, David Cross is known (or rather, mostly known) for being a member of the Crimson King's court. In particular, the skilled violinist was part of the King Crimson in what is commonly known as the second lineup (Larks, Red, Starless&, etc...).

As per my habit, I won't describe each track individually, also because Cross's work is quite homogeneous.

The album consists of 10 tracks. It's a remarkable progressive record that is absolutely close to the sounds of "Red," like the Fripp-like guitar in awful love ("Red" which I consider, like Kurt Cobain, the best album in rock history) yet manages, despite this resemblance, to have its own originality and life.

In a way, it's like witnessing a blend of the aforementioned Red and the latest KC, "The Power to Believe." It was said that Cross left KC due to an excessive "dominance" of the rhythm section, which in a way limited the violinist's performances (in the USA live, the violin tracks were overdubbed in the studio before releasing the album): even in this case, the rhythm section is powerful, bordering on progressive metal, the voice strongly resembles Wetton's and fits the music well, while the violin is ever-present without the excessive virtuosity one might expect. The atmosphere is dark, sometimes claustrophobic but never depressing and with considerable melodic surges. The songs are very inspired. As far as I'm concerned, an astounding work that has much to teach the many prog-metal bands whose works might be impeccable in terms of instrumental execution but quite lacking in inspiration and emotion (a random name???).

Were I to choose a single to release, I'd say "States of Deception" or the catchy and thus more accessible "Tell me Your Name" even though I repeat, all or almost all the tracks are very inspired. In conclusion, an album definitely recommended for those who love KC, prog, but also for those who have never ventured into this genre because the songs have a reasonable length and are not unnecessarily drawn out to boast durations over 10 minutes.

Rating 4.5, since I can't give half-stars, I'll round up.