BEAT is a band formed by King Crimson members Adrian Belew, singer, and Tony Levin, bassist, keeping a creative reinterpretation of the music, including their iconic albums. The boys teamed up with guitarist Steve Vai and drummer Terry Bozzio, who represent the rock and roll, experimental, funky sounds that most will remember. BEAT hit the road and stopped in Phoenix, Arizona, at the well-known circle-in-the-round Celebrity Theatre.
The sold-out show didn’t disappoint their loyal fan base and showed that rock is not dead, especially when it comes to the sounds and jams of King Crimson. Led by Adrian Belew, the band played for two and a half hours over two sets, each with its own kind of magic that raised the roof. Bassist Tony Levin performed with his own unique style of instruments that you just couldn’t stop watching, and if that wasn’t enough to blow your mind, add Steve Vai’s throwdown to the mix. This night was just genius.
Vai was meant for nights like this, opportunities like this, and bands like this, fitting in as if these mighty four musicians had done this gig forever. Terry Bozzio on drums had his own spin on things, tucked in the middle of a crazy and amazing kit that rivals no one. This machine is no joke, rounding out a musical instrument fantasy that is a must-see. If you’re an instrument junky, get ready for a special kind of visual experience.
BEAT performed all King Crimson songs but one, leaving the crowd wanting more, and I think they were very, very satisfied, to say the least. A standing ovation that wouldn’t end let the members of BEAT conquer the Valley of the Sun with a lasting impression that will bring ’em back again on the next tour. This is the second time BEAT has toured in the past four years, not letting the music of King Crimson die.
The light show, along with the funky sounds that I didn’t know guitars could make, was just mind-blowing and a different kind of show that I think most would agree is one you should experience.
The band is just warming up, and tour dates can be found here.
Setlist:
Set 1
Dinosaur
Neurotica
Neal and Jack and Me
Sartori in Tangier
Three of a Perfect Pair
Walking on Air
Industry
Larks Tonguesin Aspic
Set 2
Waiting Man
People
The Sheltering Sky
Sleepless
Matte Kudasai
Frame by Frame
Elephant Talk
Indiscipline
City of Tiny Lites (Frank Zappa Cover)
Thela Hun Ginjeet