Honestly, I don't know much about David Sylvian or the first group he sang for: Japan (who apparently made the unlikely evolution from slummy punk glam to experimental art rock in a five studio album arc). I know I used to own the CD The First Day, the first of Sylvian's collaborations with Robert Fripp (a guitar genius so seriously devoted to his craft that he often sits on a stool when he plays, yo!). The whole LP is filled with dreamy, sublime, sneakily funky, ambient tinged songs that always succeed in holding up as solid songs despite all the adjectives they attract. Referring to the juxtaposition of Fripp's guitar work and Sylvian's voice, Trouser Press aptly describes this LP as an "engrossing, invigorating and mind-expanding adventure of sharp teeth and smooth skin." Sylvian celebrates his 52nd birthday today. Here's a sweet live version of one of the most memorable songs from The First Day:
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