Critically acclaimed by their fans as the next Metallica, Crooked X's self-titled debut album provides listeners with hard-rocking metal that has some serious potential. Their garage band sound rises to the big leagues with heavy tracks that have head-banging quality.
The band recently played at Rockfest in Kansas City, the largest one-day rock festival in the nation. With this much success already under their belts, a song featured on garage band and an ever-growing fan base, it may come as a shock as to what age these rockers really are – 14. The boys may be minors, but their sound is far from. These kiddos are living their "Rock and Roll Dream" (the title to track 4 on their album).
Lyrically, the band is a bit slacking. This is understandable considering their experiences only extend through their freshman year of high school. According to the band's website, www.crookedx.com, the song "Nightmare" was written when the boys were only 11. During this track, it is shocking how post-puberty lead vocalist Forrest French sounds. The Metallica influence definitely comes through in this track.
The typical strong riffs with moderate tempo bass and drums make for a pretty safe sound, especially for a debut album. The band could branch out more in the future by experimenting with some minor tones and beat changes.
The track, "Death of Me," has an almost Pearl Jam feel to it with a post-grunge vibe. Forrest's vocal talent could have been accented more in the chorus.
In "Rock and Roll Dream," the lyrics could be a PG-rated Nickelback song – annoying, shallow and ridiculously repetitive. However, the track "Fade" adds some meaning and a better vocabulary to the picture.
Overall, the band is one to watch out for. As they grow in height, hopefully they will grow in depth and respect.
Young band already has big reputation
Published: Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Updated: Wednesday, June 17, 2009
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