X (the band) at the Paradise May 26, 2009

So what is this? The 8th time I've seen X? I just remember the first time was in the 80's on the tour with Tony Gilkyson, I was so sad then that I'd missed the Billy Zoom heyday. I think there were 2 shows with Gilkyson, 2 with Dave Alvin, and the last 4 with Zoom. Oh Billy Zoom there is no comparison to you. Your bizarre frozen smile, your stock still stance while you kick total ass on guitar. And Zoom, you're just ONE of the members of X! I mean most bands have one or maybe 2 standout members but X has four! Dissonant singing wild child Exene, foxy earthy bassist John Doe, and skin beater extraordinaire DJ Bonebrake. But having seen this band without Zoom, let me assure you the complete package needs to be in place to get the full effect. How delightful they're still playing today.

Tonight's show was all by voter request at X's website so it seemed there were a lot more obscure album tracks to be heard tonight instead of just the hits. Of course, knowing every song they ever did front to end doesn't hurt either.

This just terrifies me

Indian Version of Thriller, somehow even scarier than Michael Jackson in real life.