I don't live in the States, but if I did I'd never let this band get away without the recognition it deserves! A little rough, huh? Yes, speakin' about maybe the most bizarre Rock trio, this is just the case. I say Rock 'cause it's a hard-as-hell task to categorize/label King's X music (yet, I don't think it could be 'Metal' as it was labeled throughout the years). Those who have tried will (or have) fail(ed) and if you think Ogre Tones will be your savior, then it's just not your lucky day. What a weird band...
Hailing from Texas, King's X has been around for no less than 20+ years (initially under the Edge moniker). The band that's loved more from the musicians rather than the fans, joined forces with ZZ Top 'link' Sam Taylor, with whom behind the console they released their Out Of The Silent Planet debut through the Megaforce (call me Johnny Zazula) label in 1988. I believe the fact that Megaforce was their first label - with Metal Blade being the follow-up - plus the band's unique Metal-meets-Rock-meets Prog-meets-whatever nonmainstream style were the crucial factors that guided this wacky trio to focus more on the Hard & Heavy market.
If you have not heard of even one sample of the band's music, you won't ever clear out in your mind what I'm trying to review... Anyway, with Ty Tabor known to some for his involvement in the Platypus project (featuring Dream Theater's 4-string octopus, John Myung) and Doug Pinnick for his guest participation in the DT Falling Into Infinity, it's obvious what level the band stands on in terms of technical skills. That's why all three members also have credits in various other projects/guest appearances - too numerous to mention.
To the music: 2005 marks the band's first album for Prog Rock/Metal devotees Inside Out label. Initially entitled as Landscape, I think this present effort is as groovy as it could be! King's X always was an intelligent band, that's why they achieve a certain 'buzz' with each release they put out. Still, in Ogre Tones - what the heck does ogre mean (?) - they seem to put a lot more effort in the rhythm sector of their tunes. Accompanied by a superb production - Michael Wagener's magic hands and own studio - all songs come out so solid and powerful, straightforward and smooth, all at the same time. The hybrid of Tabor's varied guitar themes, Pinnick's dominant bass lines and Gaskill's skin pounding is again impressive.
Surely, it's not for the average fan (not to underestimate anyone's brainpower!) but there's some kind of magic in this specific sound that traps your ears, making difficult to deny shaking your head positively. Multiply this by ten, if you're a musician. It's not the complexion of course, but how do they come up with such hooks?
Not to forget: the vocals were always the only so-and-so 'zone' for me. Not bad, but I feel that Pinnick's too 'loose' in general. I thought of monotonous but that's too dangerous to state.
With tracks lying on all sides of Rock music, Ogre Tones is - for the trio's loyal followers - a rather good release. However, if not yet familiar with this Texas outfit, try before you buy! The rating is of lesser importance, do not count on it of course...
- Album Highlights: Bebop, to get things straight. Titti Frutti forever.