Are King's X Glam?
Last night I found myself sitting in my office, staring at the pink walls. You see, I was near zombie state I was so tired...instead of writing and doing a ton of work that needs tackled, I just sort of randomly listened to music and enjoyed sitting in my own private space.
I (naturally) listened to the new Motley Crue, random Def Leppard, Sammy Hagar's The Essential Red Collection and King's X Ear Candy. Then it dawned on me that I didn't know how to classify King's X. Of course that doesn't matter as I listen to all sorts of music across many genres, but I've often heard people refer to King's X as a Glam band...and I'm not so sure that's an accurate distinction.
iTunes defines King's X as a Metal act, and I think that is fair. No matter what the classification, it's pretty clear that King's X rock. The band are often compared to Faith No More and Living Colour but I actually prefer King's X.
Please believe, King's X have been around for a long time, yo. We're talking at least as long as Motley Crue in at least some form. Of course, the band didn't really get going until 1985 in Houston and they've been going strong every since. Doug Pinnick, Ty Tabor and Jerry Gaskill are a true power trio and now I am obsessed with this band.
Obsessed.
I literally listened to King's X - both on CD, iTunes and YouTube for three solid hours last night. I'm always fascinated by bands that share vocal duties, not to mention switch instruments on occasion.
When I went poking around the band's official website , I was happy to discover that King's X (with Extreme) are playing a free show in Cincinnati August 10. I know I have a scheduling conflict that day and I don't care. I'm going to this show!
Here's King's X performing the Jimi Hendrix tune "Manic Depression" at Woodstock '94. Back then MTV still covered major music events. Go figure.
Here's the clip supporting the song "Over My Head."
So, what are your thoughts on King's X? Are they Glam, Metal or a combination of the two - or something totally different? Whatever the case, I'd define their sound as definitely special and nearly impossible to replicate.