Radiophonics - (1995) Soundscapes, Vol. 1

Radiophonics - (1995) Soundscapes, Vol. 1

Live, released in 1996

The third session of soundscapes.By now it is most clear how pronounced this general aspect of Robert Fripp music and concept is.From a decent set of choices, Radiophonics-1995 Soundscapes Vol.1-Live In Argentina is a good option, resembling in a more than decent manner the value of soundscaping and the actual intensity of such a performance.I do not regard it as the top of Fripp soundscaping, nor the most valorous album effect of the mass concerts and the massive work done in all the years of soundscaping – in fact I cannot even define a maximum point of this style and this period;more than that,in my opinion, there exists no extraordinary session apart from others; – yet it is something recommended. Concerning its previous outputs, 1999 and A Blessing Of Tears, this one defines in a close to complete measure the same ideals and the same methods. What differs is not the context, but mainly the themes and the approaches. It imposes through through a rigurous application of the principle,but it certainly doesn’t do a boom in the general scheme or the general impression. By this album, Robert Fripp’s “such” music remains a viewpoint of quality and an elevated moment for the ones who desire such thing, then can understand its nature.For I say it once more (an obligation as a review of the Fripp discography, if you will), this kind is not for everyone, as it leaves out simplicity and casualism. The last aspect is a persistence of the complex, defined style.

The flow of Radiophonics goes like so: three massive sized composition in which large maneuvers are the essence; in here lies the defined moment of soundscaping, just like it did in all the other occasions of long pieces and just like it will do. The movement builds to a climax of (ingenious or not) effect. Fripp shows, as always, a tempered spirit in doing this, but nevertheless a dedication that creates the actual undimished flavour. These three pieces express something “casual” in its way (though not to be understand as the opposite of complex), garnished to its best possible potential. Perhaps not totally appealing, but by nothing unstable or unchallenging. Characteristic blend; motives appear and dissapear; the language maintains a sole definition. Through these, the perspective remains one to be confronted and mastered. The experience is more a didact one than a reflection of inside. But these,again, are the things of purpose in soundscaping albums. What Radiophonics has “special” is the compact power and the saturated look. The last large piece, “Atmosphere” , is actually a separate chapter of the album aside from the two “Radiophonics” parts, which concludes with another set of three shorter pieces. The resonance of the two sides is of course a discrepance, but in the same context, how much can it really be? “Elegy” is more diffuze. “Streets” is vulgar (positive thinking, of course) and pronounce a more acute phase of the music (of the performance? of the surrealmeaning?). And “Sky” seems boemic, voiled in an armonic way, defined by the moment of the spirit’s rest.

Practicly, Radiophonics-1995 Soundscapes Vol.1-Live In Argentina expresses another chapter in a vigurous,extensive material, challenging music, special connotations attempt of essence and style, quality book of Robert Fripp, a chapter in which “positive stagnation” is a general aspect and the persuasive motive of not launching towards extremes or unwanted difference efects is a virtue. For both those loving this craft,as well as for those who just want to simply try the moment, the album is a nice thing and a judged decision.

Track Listings

1. Radiophonic I (11:11)
2. Radiophonic II (14:47)
3. Buenos Aires Suite (31:07)
a) Atmosphere 11:56
b) Elegy (For Mothers and Children) 5:48
c) Streets 5:34
d) Sky 7:49

Total Time: 57:05
Line-up/Musicians


- Robert Fripp / guitarist