For those of you who know the band King’s X are probably aware of their unreal live performances. With dead accurate renditions of studio counterparts, extended live jams, passionate audience participation and infectious stage presence; these guys play shows that would save the Earth from alien invasion.And it was no different last Wednesday night, April 25th, when King’s X took the stage at the world famous Whisky A Go Go.
The show opened with the traditional Groove Machine. A song King’s X has used to open their shows since 1998’s Tape Head. And from the moment the first chords were struck the band was in fine form. All the way through their seventeen song set list. Pretty impressive for dudes who are all over 55. Ty Tabor flawless flew all of his guitar tones throughout the years. Jerry Gaskill played with almost comical amounts of energy. And Dug Pinnick, well, what can you say about the guy? The fact that he’s 67 and the only remaining 90’s gospel screamer is amazing. And he still wails it to the heavens! Not to mention his seemingly endless amount of energy. He literally feeds off of the crowds vibes.
After the show opener the band went into a slamming rendition of The World Around Me. It was so heavy I thought the sunset strip was going to fall down the hill it resides on. It was infrastructure crushing. Jerry’s bass drum kick blew the crowd back with each hit. Their extended jam cut of Vegetable was also incredibly memorable. Ty Tabor showing off his criminally underrated guitar skills. And I was finally on Ty’s side of the stage for once. Every time I’ve seen the band it’s been from Dug’s side. It was great to see an up close guitar tutorial Ty Tabor style. The X actually did quite a bit from the Dogman album: The title track, Flies and Blue Skies, Pillow and Sunshine Rain. I wasn’t expecting those tracks to be honest. Pillow was particularly excellent.
Of course all the King’s X classics were present as well: We Were Born To Be Loved with it’s bad ass outro riff was a great highlight. Over My Head was complete with an emotional, truthful Dug Pinnick sermon. And the band closed with Goldilox. And instead of doing the vocals they decided to let the crowd sing it. And sing we did. It was amazing how everyone knew every single word and every harmony. A very special moment. Solidifying that Goldilox is without question the most underrated ballad ever written.
Now, of course, there were a few of my faves missing from the set. I would have loved to hear Moanjam. And What is This? wasn’t there. But you can’t hear ’em all. Hopefully they’ll throw those back in on the next tour. But overall what an experience! The band played The Whisky like The Forum. Which of course is where they should be playing. But that’s another subject for another blog. If you’re on the West coast check upcoming dates. And I believe there’s an East coast leg coming up as well. If you haven’t seen this band live it’s a must go.
Speaks for itself
