review by: Nikita

This CD is a newly recorded collection of the band’s “best of” from before this power trio had signed their first record deal in 1988.

I see some of you shudder - “eeek!, the 80’s?”

Fact of the matter is these tunes are totally contemporary in every way. With musicians of this caliber, a collection like this only benefits from the bands continued experience and the kind of advances that have been made in studio recording. When you listen to this, you also get a sense of their history.

It’s clear that King’s X was creating a sound without the imposing baton of a record company manager looking for a tried and true formula. The Kings are not shy of the 64 bar guitar solo, quirky song structure or the occasional boomerang backbeat. They capture and fascinate with good songs and creative arrangements. The cuts are very individual and easily identifiable pieces that speak for themselves and not from the harness of a whimsical record label.

Beautiful, thick sound and a talented studio engineer highlight the already fabulous sound that these guys demonstrate even in live performance. (see live review in this issue) Their vocal harmonies are remarkable, really. I’m pretty much convinced that it’s Doug Pinnick, that stylicious bass player, that drives the harmony genius.

This CD is a must for any guitar tone enthusiast. Ty Tabor is a master of his tone and the endless palate of effects available to the adventurous guitarist. He goes confidently from the standard Stratocaster Marshal stack noodling to the esoteric reverse delay flange module. Always, it is balanced, a perfectly mixed wash of electricity and intrigue.

What I *would* do is put a cap on that promo shot I got in the mail with the CD. Who needs a BORING picture like this when the photos on the slick, thick liner notes are so good. No band should be in the harsh light around an empty table the morning after a gig. Does anybody want this photo before I throw it out? (8.5/10)