I was one of the world's biggest King's X fans from the release of their first album. I interviewed Jerry Gaskill back in 1990 and really enjoyed our chat. Over the years, I've seen them perform live six or seven times. I often described their music as being "so beautiful it hurts." Musically otherworldly. Lyrically brilliant. Harmonically angelic. A magical band.
However, nowadays, I have a hard time handling Dug's anti-Christian, anti-God, venomous, bitter attitude. It gives me the creeps.
I saw them a couple of years ago and was about to yell to Dug to shut the hell up and just play the music. His angry rant, no doubt fueled by the booze he guzzled on stage, had crossed the line into the embarrassment realm. Even Ty looked uncomfortable.
The band was better musically, lyrically, and emotionally back when they were at least pseudo Christians. Their music had a vibe that soothed my soul. Now, it jangles my nerves. I sometimes choke on the bitterness of the lyrics, as with "Pray," the first song off XV. Or the song "Move," further into the album. Okay, Dug. I get it. You're bitter. Cowboy up and move on, dude.
King's X are three of the most talented musicians I can think of. Unique in every sense of the word. Especially their harmonies. Wow. Beatle-esque, indeed.
But until Dug makes peace with himself and the world around him, I'm afraid King's X will never be to me what they were. In today's world, it's easy to be cynical, negative, bitter, angry, and "dark." Any band can do that -- and plenty make a tidy living at it, too. But I prefer that which uplifts me. I can only handle just so much of a guy spewing poisonous lyrics before I just walk away in disgust. And pity. (And that goes for Warrel Dane, too. Geez, can that guy be any more bitter about religion, and angry at the world?)
I'm listening to XV. And I'm liking what I hear. But the magical vibe is gone.
