King’s X: In The New Age – The Atlantic Recordings 1988-1995, 6CD Box Set
Cherry Red Records
This collection features six albums from the Missouri-based trio, King’s X. These albums, released under Megaforce and Atlantic Records from 1988 onwards, showcase the band’s unique blend of hard rock, psychedelia, funk, soul, and gospel. The band’s influence on progressive metal, alternative rock, and grunge genres is evident in these albums.
Albums:
Out Of The Silent Planet (CD1, 1988): This debut album introduced a hard rock sound fused with elements of psychedelia, funk, soul, and gospel. It played a significant role in the development of progressive metal, alternative rock, and even grunge.
Gretchen Goes To Nebraska (CD2, 1989): This conceptual second record features themes of faith and spirituality. Despite not being a Christian Rock band, this album featured on Billboard’s Christian music chart.
Faith Hope Love (CD3, 1990): This was their first album to break into the Billboard Hot 100. It was the band’s third record in three years.
King’s X (CD4, 1992): This self-titled album, released under Atlantic Records, sported a darker and more introspective sound. It was their last album produced by long-time collaborator Sam Taylor.
Dogman (CD5, 1994): Produced by Brendan O’Brien, this album marked a shift to a heavier sound. It includes live versions of “Shoes” and “We Were Born to Be Loved” as bonus tracks.
Ear Candy (CD6, 1996): Produced with Arnold Lanni, this was King’s X’s sixth album and their final record for Atlantic before switching to Metal Blade records. The album cover features a psychedelic design.
The band’s sound will appeal to fans of Rush, Smashing Pumpkins, and Dream Theater.
King’s X has toured with major bands like Iron Maiden and AC/DC, and made an appearance at Woodstock 94.
They have influenced bands such as Pearl Jam, Alice in Chains, Soundgarden, and Pantera.
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
