XV

3.5 stars. I think this cd fits fairly nicely with their first four classic albums (the first three plus "Dogman"), though it's not quite as good. When did Doug change his name to Dug ? I must admit I have nothing from the band between "Dogman" and this one. Anyway the guys look great and very similar to the old days. Good for them.

"Pray" is a fantastic opener. I really can relate to the lyrics which basically say instead of trying to change me, pray for me ! Get off my back and let God change me if your so convinced I need to be like you. Yes I can relate and have actually said these things to religious people.This song gets pretty heavy after 2 1/2 minutes. And check out Dug who brought out his 12 string bass for this one. "Blue" is a mid paced tune that just feels right if you know what i mean. "Repeating Myself" is such a meaningful song. Ty's on vocals telling us a story. "Rocket Ship" is heavier with more energy although the chorus is lighter. Great ending. "Julie" has Jerry on vocals. That's a surprise. The guitar sounds great as Ty strums away. "Alright" is an uptempo rocker that recalls their past. I like it ! Dug sings : "You put your hand on my shoulder and told me, do what you do and believe". Amen Dug, keep it up man.

"Broke" is a fun tune. Blues flavoured with a steady beat. I like the vocal melodies before a minute "Na na na na No Yeah". Great track. "I Just Want To Live" is a very cool song. Guitar solo before 3 1/2 minutes. "Move" opens with drums and chunky bass as vocals join in.Kicks in around a minute as the contrast continues.They're cooking to end it. "I Don't Know" opens with Ty on guitar and vocals. Those harmonies come in before a minute. Nice.This is classic KINGS X. "Stuck" has some power to it. Ty lights it up 2 1/2 minutes in. A great rhythm to this one. "Go Tell Somebody" is hard not to sing along with or move to. Check out the guitar after 2 minutes. Oh yeah ! "If you like what you hear then go tell somebody". "Shout it from the rooftops...go tell someone".

Go tell someone about KINGS X because these guys are pretty amazing, even if they call their 12th album XV. I didn't say they were good at math did I ?