Robert Fripp and Toyah Gives Incredible King Crimson Cover In New Video

Here’s another dose of rock n’ roll fun as the internet’s favorite classic rock couple, Toyah Willcox and Robert Fripp, are back with a new installment of their popular video series, Sunday Lunch.

This week, they’re taking a trip down memory lane for Fripp, revisiting a song he holds dear. The legendary guitarist is putting his own spin on a King Crimson classic – “Part IV” from the 1973 album, Larks’ Tongues in Aspic. 

This track originally featured Fripp’s soaring guitar work, and now fans can see him revisit it alongside his wife, Toyah, for a fresh and entertaining cover.

A turning point in King Crimson’s story

Marking a new chapter for King Crimson, Larks’ Tongues in Aspic arrived in March 1973, two years after their previous album, Islands. This fifth studio album witnessed a significant shift in the band’s sound.

Drawing inspiration from European classical music, Larks’ Tongues in Aspic became a cornerstone of their evolution.

The album also saw a change in personnel. Fripp, the band’s sole constant member, was joined by a new lineup for this recording. Notably, singer John Wetton became a part of the band, contributing his vocals to the fresh direction of King Crimson.

Toyah takes center stage in this tribute

Toyah channeled her inner rock goddess for the latest installment of Sunday Lunch. In a playful twist, she tackled the guitar duties, shredding with a style reminiscent of Fripp in his King Crimson days.

Fripp, meanwhile, took a more relaxed approach, leaving the spotlight to his wife. Amusingly, he danced around Toyah, wielding ribbon wands and adding a touch of theatrical flair to the performance.

While the full “Part IV” from King Crimson clocks in at a staggering 13 minutes, the couple delivers a tight and energetic 90-second rendition, capturing the essence of the original track.

Their success sparked a Christmas tour and a feature film buzz

The pair’s viral success shows no signs of slowing down. Fresh off the heels of their critically acclaimed 2023 tour, the couple announced a Christmas Party 2024 UK tour via their Instagram page. Fans can expect five electrifying nights of classic rock featuring Toyah, Robert, and their full band, hitting cities like Edinburgh, Bath, and London.

This exciting news comes amidst speculation of a potential feature film based on their beloved Sunday Lunch YouTube series. The series, known for its playful covers and Toyah’s outrageous costumes, has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide.

While details remain under wraps, the possibility of a film adds another layer to the incredible journey of this dynamic duo.

Robert Fripp’s peak King Crimson performance

For a glimpse of Robert Fripp at his peak with King Crimson, look back to their electrifying 1973 concert in New York’s Central Park. The band ripped through a selection of tracks from their then-recently released album, Larks’ Tongues in Aspic, showcasing their signature sound.

This legendary performance wasn’t just about replicating studio recordings. King Crimson thrived on improvisation, and this Central Park show was no exception. With wild dynamic shifts and extended instrumental sections, the band truly pushed the boundaries of rock music.  

Violinist David Cross added another dimension to the live experience, weaving his parts into the sonic tapestry, creating a truly psychedelic atmosphere for the audience.