KXM (Self-Titled)

Who said there ain't such things as super groups anymore?  Not sure, but they need to get their head out of their ass, because their are some killer side projects being formed, by some of the greats.  Some of these supergroup experiments go array, but some work.  The latest to catch my ear is the collaboration of dUg Pinninck (Kings X), George Lynch (Lynch Mob) and Ray Luzier (Korn).  The band is called KXM, which features a letter from each members day job. 

KXM is a raw, stripped down, nasty piece of rock n roll.  The foundation of their sound, is based in heavy blues, but there is also abit of soul mixed in, thanks to Mr. Pinnick.  dUg sings his ass off on this record.  And that is the thing about this album, because it seems that each guy is at the top of his game.  Lynch is on fire on every track, even when he experiments a little, displaying some of his best work in years.  I also have a new respect for Ray Luzier, because this guy does some nice work on this CD.  I don't tend to pay too much attention to what the drummer is doing, but with this one, Luzier, has my full attention.

This CD is full of rockers, a ballad and an instrumental.  Each musician is at the top of their game, as if they had something to prove with this release.  You can tell the guys had a good time making this record, because it is apparent in their performances.  If I were to pick one band, that I hear more of, out of the three, it would have to Kings X.  One, just because dUg is the vocalist, but secondly, the record features those signature Pinnick harmonies, that I've been missing, from the last few Kings X releases.  Also, there is some heavy Lynch Mob overtones, but what do you expect.  This a groove laden rocker that will stay in the rotation for some time.  Go get it.

The Bottom Line:  KXM proving that they live up to the name supergroup.  Kings X meet Lynch Mob, with a whole lot of soul mixed it.  This is one of the best realeases of the year, by far. 

Standout Tracks: Rescue Me, Faith is a Room, Stars, and Do it Now

- Ragman hopes this isn't a one off - but it's too good to stop at one release...