John Paul Jones Thunderthief CD - Import

This solo offering from former Zep man John Paul Jones comes to you courtesy of Robert Fripp's DGM label, and it's not difficult to see why the King Crimson guitarist feels a sense of simpatico with Jones. Much of the material here echoes not only the more artful sounds Jones explored with latter-day Led Zeppelin, but moreover the visceral blend of art-rock and heavy riffs that King Crimson began perfecting in the mid-'70s. In fact, Fripp makes a blistering guest appearance on the appropriately thundering lead-off cut "Leafy Meadows." Jones plays the lion's share of the instruments here, but he chooses his partners well; art-rock cult hero Peter Blegvad contributes lyrics and cover art. The piano ballad "Ice Fishing at Night" provides something of a respite, suggesting the quieter moments of Jack Bruce's early solo work, but the bulk of THE THUNDERTHIEF is given over to powerful guitar and keyboard motifs and of course masterfully throbbing bass lines.

Recorded at the Malthouse, London, England.

Personnel includes: John Paul Jones (vocals, acoustic & electric guitars, mandolin, mandola, ukulele, autoharp, koto, piano, organ, synthesizer); Robert Fripp, Adam Bomb (guitar); Nick Beggs (Chapman stick); Terl Bryant (drums, percussion).

The Wire (2/02, p.63) - "...A varied collection of styles ranging from folk rock to Metal tinged dance beats and even petulant punk rock..."
Mojo (Publisher) (3/02, p.108) - "...Noisy and fun - heavy metal with brains..."