‘California X’ is reminiscent of J. Mascis and co in full lank-haired fuzz. It might be as modern as loincloth, but ‘California X’ is surely a future classic.
California X’s self-titled first toe-dip into the indie-rock hot springs pulls off that magical feat of sounding like all those bands you love while still coming off fresh and original
California X sound rather placeless, and not necessarily like a band that simply missed the boat for the late ‘80s underground scene.
The electric camaraderie, chrome riffs, and crisp production make for a record that not only kicks, but shows how fun it can be to make music with your friends.
Mostly, though, California X just goes, roaring through one deafening, full-tilt tune, stopping briefly to catch its breath, then tearing into the next.
California X feels like it's over too soon, and I almost thought I had missed something. Or are the songs just blase enough that my mind shut them out? In the end, I found CX to be a good album, although I know I'm going to have to listen to it again if I really want to catch hold of it.
#33 | / | The Fly |