If one band has developed a so calles `signature sound` it must be King`s X. Their debut album `Out Of The Silent Planet` that was released in 1988 brought a whole new perspective on groove rock. Harmony vocals, thumping rhythms and remarkable songstructures are the main ingredients of King`s X and the 9th studio album, `Manic Moonlight` is no exception. But unfortunately this is the third album in a row (`Tape Head` and `Please Come Home Mr.Bulbous`) that is somewhat dissapoints me. In an interview I once did with guitarist Ty Tabor he told me that they write the King`s X music in the studio while they are recording the actual album and this is still the case and I must say that it is very much audible. OK, the songs may have a spontaneous caracter and still feature all the trademarks but with brilliant albums in their catalogue like `Faith Hope, Love`, `Dogman` and `Ear Candy` I want them to be really creative again.

A song like `Yeah` for instance sounds real nice but the only lyric is (indeed) "Yeah", now come on. They do try, `False Alarm` shows the real spirit again and `Vegetable` also contains `old sparks`. Some modern sounds and samples are featured as well on the album which is not bad at all but the three creative musicians could have made something better out of it. There are also some experiments with Tabor`s guitarsound and that also causes some problems. The signature sound changes and that is a pity. It still sounds heavy but the combination with the poor songwriting makes it sound less interesting. Too bad, I really hope that the numerous side projects from especially Doug Pinnick and Ty Tabor aren`t sucking the real creativity out of them and King`s X is kept satisfied with the leftovers. The next album will be crucial.