X
See How We Are

THE REVIEW

Originally from Los Angeles, X were the 'true' creators of beach-punk. The music of X emerged during a particular period, the era following the Sex Pistols and fully involving the Joy Division.

The band was formed in 1977, but the group's typical sound was and will always be typical of the 80s; their music is a blend of noise and melody that merge to create truly unique sounds. They precede the grunge era, and the grunge movement itself drew inspiration from this type of music. They were the very first band to have a dark and rebellious female icon as their leader. Exene Cervenka, who at the time was among the first to embody that style both in singing and dealing with the audience, dressed in an unusual way. Over time, Exene became one of the most famous singers of the 80s.

But within the group, the mastermind was bassist John Doele, who was also the band's singer. On guitar was the celebrated Billy Zoom, heavily influenced by rock'n'roll; and on drums was D.J. Bonebrake, passionate about garage-rock and capable of venturing into punk and country rhythms.

In summary, X is all of this: they invented beach-punk, knew how to create violent and desolate ballads, and represented the violence and anger of a rather turbulent period. X skillfully fused punk-rock with the new wave spirit. Their songs are set in a decadent atmosphere that matched the bourgeoisie and the American lifestyle. In their career, they've produced records that shook America, leading people to believe that that period of decay and violence could end. In all their lyrics, there's this hope, emerging strong and firm. The 'hope' of those who know that something would change sooner or later. Many generations have identified with their music, their songs. Some of their tracks are true anthems of freedom. The band's first three albums marked and refined their sound, and each album includes anthology-worthy tracks.

In 1987, X released ''See How We Are''', which exceeded everyone's expectations. The band was coming off a difficult period, the guitarist Billy Zoom had left the band, and there were many doubts about their new studio work.

The album starts off quite turbulently and quickly with ''I'm Lost'', a typical X track. The drums are very prominent throughout the song, with the guitar setting the rhythm. Exene Cervenka's voice duets with John Doele. ''You'' continues in the same vein as the first track. ''4th Of July'' is a melodic piece that deserves a thorough listen. One of the most beautiful tracks on the entire album. Without a doubt, the gem of the record is ''See How We Are'', the song that takes its name from the album's title. After a rather slow guitar intro, Doele's voice comes in. The rhythm becomes more assertive, and the 'classic' duet between Exene and Doele begins. Both with their splendid voices manage to create a unique, moving chorus. Over time, it has become one of the most beautiful songs in the group's entire discography. The other pieces are quite similar to each other, always faithful to that beach-punk that made the band famous worldwide.

A group that managed to navigate between punk, rock'n'roll, and new wave. They succeeded in blending these genres to create something original and innovative.