KING’S X – THREE SIDES OF ONE TOUR – SPACE BALLROOM
By Ralph Beauchamp
On Thursday 10/16, King’s X brought their Three Sides Of One tour to a sold out Space Ballroom. The Space Ballroom was packed with King’s X fans ready to enjoy an inspiring evening of pure magic. There a few bands that can claim to be as criminally underrated and simultaneously revered as King’s X. The three-piece, comprised of Doug Pinnick (Bass/Vocals), Jerry Gaskill (Drums) and Ty Tabor (Guitar/Vocals), delivered a masterclass in musical authenticity. They proved once again that they’re are one of the most compelling live acts in rock music.
As soon as they hit the stage, chants of “Jerry, Jerry” filled the room showcasing the love King’s X‘s fans have for the drummer. They opened with a soulful rendition of “Groove Machine” and the audience immediately felt King’s X’s glorious vibes. “The World Around Me”, “Pillow” and “Cigarettes” followed with Ty Tabor giving a shoutout to Ace Frehley who had just passed away that day. King’s X continued with “Fade”, “All God’s Children” and “Alright”. The room was really getting excited. The music was plainly exhilarating.
All the while, Doug Pinnick remained an absolute force of nature. His vocals were raw and emotive, ranging from guttural growls to gospel-like falsettos His bass tones were thick yet melodically accessible. Ty Tabor’s guitar work was as tasteful as ever being both intricate and soaring. Whether he was locking into deep riffs or letting loose with an inventive solo, Tabor’s guitar cut through with crystalline clarity. Jerry Gaskill, sitting behind on the kit, was locked in. His drumming was deceptively simple but always in the pocket. His subtle fills and dynamic control are a reminder that flash isn’t everything – feel is.
After “Alright”, King’s X continued the aural onslaught with “Nothing but the Truth”, “Summerland”, “Black Like Sunday” and “Let It Rain”. What makes a King’s X show special isn’t just the music. It’s the heavenly aura. There’s no pretense, no overproduction. It’s just three guys playing music they truly believe in. One can plainly see that the connection with their fans is substantial. The band closed out with “Festival”, “In the New Age” and “We Were Born to Be Loved”.
King’s X‘s encore was simply amazing. They saved the best for last. “It’s Love” led into “Dogman” with the entire room singing along. The final song was an incredible version of “Goldilox” which had the Space Ballroom reeling.
King’s X continues to defy age, trends and mainstream expectations. Their live performances are an indication of what music can be when it’s unfiltered and heartfelt. If you ever get a chance to see them, go. It’s not just a concert but an immersive experience.
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