Every once in a while an album comes out that changes the way people think about a genre of music. Usually innovating a movement that becomes mainstream, then oversaturated and then eventually dies. The first Zeppelin and Sabbath albums. Van Halen’s first. Metallica’s ‘Kill ‘Em All.’ Among a few others. But one album that gets overlooked for its inspiration. What it did for metal and hard rock. And the movement that followed is King’s X’s 1988 debut ‘Out of the Silent Planet.’
Like most innovative albums, ‘Out of the Silent Planet’ was met with confusion by about 50% of listeners. Indifference by 35%. And insane fanatical fandom by the other 15%. Most of them being in the metal/hard rock community. Everyone from Anthrax’s Charlie Benante to Pantera’s Dimebag Darell to the up and coming Seattle scene were smitten with King’s X’s unique combination: ten ton heavy drop D groove metal, lead vocal gospel wails, pitch perfect Beatles inspired vocal harmonies and impeccable progressive rock jams. Creating a unique sound that would inspire the next generation of heavy music.
‘In The New Age’ kicks things off in defining action. Ty Tabor’s opening lead vocals lean into Dug’s. And the harmony element of the band is immediately established. Along with the heavy groove. ‘Goldilox’ is very likely the most underrated ballad of all time. The melodies, harmonies and modulations. It’s one of the great all time songs. ‘Power of Love’ displays how King’s X could be originally heavy. While creating fun and uplifting lyrics that didn’t revolve around sex, drugs and rock ‘n roll. ‘Wonder’ is a perfectly ‘George Harrison’ influenced track. With a major punch of progressive Black Sabbath in the mix.
‘Sometimes’ is one of the funkiest. One of most addictive, nastiest and most creative riffs ever written. An absolute banger. And a clear influence on Rage Against the Machine guitarist Tom Morello. The signature ‘King’ follows. While ‘What is This?’ remains the most bad ass riff ever written. Ever! It’s everything that King’s X stands for. ‘Far, Far Away’ displays the bands progressive chops. While still being sensitive to strong, melodic song writing. ‘Shot of Love’ is a straight forward melodic rocker. With an early look at the band’s vocal harmony prowess. ‘Visions’ closes things out with an unreal Ty Tabor guitar solo. Solidifying King’s X’s underrated status.
Upon its release, ‘Out of the Silent Planet’ was met with an unfortunate lack of understanding. However, its impact was immediate. The entire rock and metal scene started to change. Bands like Soundgarden and Alice In Chains would start to gain steam. As well as many thrash legends. And the 90’s would prove to be an era focused on groove. And much of that is due to King’s X’s first album ‘Out of the Silent Planet.’ A record that remains one of their top three to this day. Crank it, live it, love it.
