Along with the 80s alternative rock bands like U2, Midnight Oil, The Alarm, and Simple Minds, King’s X were the ultimate “Christians in a band” scenario. Despite numerous Christian labels and festivals trying to get the band on board, they always felt their audience was much wider. And yet, their lyrics always hinted at faith in bountiful ways.
Musically, the band often functioned as a ‘band’s band.’ They were praised and recognized by members of Pearl Jam, and tons of others as an influence. They played a strange mix of classic rock, funk, heavy metal, and alternative in a unique concoction of progressive metal that predated genres like grunge, alternative metal and even post metal.
Fans are divided on which era/album is the best, but I’ve always been a fan of Gretchen Goes to Nebraska. The vocal harmonies, faith-filled lyrics, heavy riffs, and funky grooves all come to their peak on the 1989 album for Megaforce. Here’s one of my favorites from the album.
And kudos to the organizers of Audiofeed Music Festival for succeeding at the long-term goal of getting the band as a headliner for this years’ fest!
(It’s also fair to note that not all band members consider themselves Christian these days.)