Robert Fripp Endorses New ‘Beat’ Supergroup Featuring Steve Vai
Robert Fripp, the visionary behind King Crimson, has given his nod to a new supergroup named Beat, which includes progressive rock luminaries and the virtuosic Steve Vai. Fripp shared on Facebook that the concept was initiated by Adrian Belew, with whom he has discussed and supported the project, and even contributed to its naming.
While Fripp won’t be performing with Beat, he has authorized the ensemble to interpret King Crimson’s work. The group’s roster boasts Danny Carey of Tool on drums and Tony Levin, a King Crimson veteran, on bass. Fripp expressed his confidence in Vai’s capabilities, stating, “Steve Vai is the only guitarist who could play my parts.”
Expertise
Vai, who has previously filled the shoes of guitar icons like Frank Zappa and Eddie Van Halen, will now contribute his expertise to Beat’s renditions of King Crimson’s 1980s era, including tracks from albums such as Three of a Perfect Pair and Beat.
Fripp embraces the continuation of King Crimson’s legacy by other artists, seeing the music as a gift to be shared and reinterpreted. While full tour details are pending, fans can anticipate a performance in San Diego on September 17th.
