Released: 1995
Tracks: The Cathedral of Tears; First Light; Midnight Blue; Reflection I; Second Light; A Blessing of Tears; Returning I; Returning II
Best track: Midnight Blue
Track to skip: absolutely none, they’re all great
This is the 2nd Soundscapes CD released by Fripp (1999 the first) and this couldn’t be more opposite of that one (I’ll describe Soundscapes as lush orchestrations made by only one guitar). While 1999 is very dark and evil, Blessing of Tears is serene, mournful and just beautiful. These series of concerts were performed in essence to mourn his mother who had just passed away. The music reflects this sadness perfectly with a perfect mix of mourning and beauty. This album is very peaceful.
I like it when Fripp makes a bunch of weird noise with his Soundscapes, but this peaceful stuff is so much better. It’s great music to put on and think to. Think about loved ones, lost ones, yourself, where you’re going. It’s not like cheesy New Age music that’s supposed to heal you or relax you or some crap like that. I think this music actually makes you THINK and concentrate on it as well.
This is a truly beautiful album and I totally recommend it as a first purchase if you’re interested in this Fripp guy. Great disc.
Rating: 93
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