DAVID CROSS BAND - ALIVE IN THE UNDERWORLD - 2008

Often underrated by fans and even some of his fellow band members during his tenure in Crimson, Cross has since carved himself a rewarding niche in both improvised and rock music that is both powerful and distinctive, arguably finding the highpoint of excitement and expression with the latter on his 2005 release, Closer Than Skin.

Documenting a series live dates in the UK during 2006, this release finds his band in fine fiery form here, storming their way through his back catalogue of solo releases and arrangements of popular King Crimson toe-tappers such as “Exiles”, “21st Century Schizoid Man” and “Starless.” Of these only that last track falters in the ballad section, where it borders on becoming unctuous.

The obvious abilities of the various musicians are well showcased in tracks such as “Nurse Insane” and “Learning Curve” going through some sophisticated Mahavishnu-like machinations with racy outbursts and a decisive metallic edge from guitarist Paul Clark.

Strong and smart in equal measure, the live dimension of the band is complimented by a studio track “Floodlights”, adapted an improvisation and fashioned into song format just as Cross did with his old band mates circa ‘72 –’74, and combining the best of both worlds in the process. If you thought the electric violin wasn’t up to the job of keeping pace with the blood and thunder of the rock backline then even a cursory listen to Cross and his full-blooded playing on “Tonk” and “I Buy Silence” should quickly put you right on that score.
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