X is the tenth studio album by American progressive rock band Spock's Beard. Similar to what Marillion did for Anoraknophobia, the album was funded by pre-orders of a limited edition of the album before the album was recorded. Those who ordered the album's "Ultra Package" had their names listed in the CD booklet and included as part of the track "Their Names Escape Me", which is exclusive to the limited edition. The album was released independently in May 2010. A retail and digital release with Mascot Records was released in August 2010. This album is the last studio album recorded with Nick D'Virgilio performing lead vocals, who left the band on November 18, 2011, to focus on other commitments.
Critical reception The X release continued the shift back to the classic Spock's Beard sound and is considered the strongest of the Nick D'Virgilio era releases. Sputnik Music said, "X is a winner on all fronts. It’s truly a triumph and a further validation of their post-Morse configuration. Spock’s Beard had rediscovered the spark that had made them so great before: every song is carefully elaborated and flows very well." Metal Reviews reported, "X is without a doubt the band’s best record with this line-up and can be easily added into the upper echelon of their works overall."
Track listing
Notes The above track listing is for the special edition. There are a few changes with the standard edition:
"The Emperor's Clothes" and "Kamikaze" are swapped over in the track listing. "From the Darkness" has a slightly longer running time of 17:09. "Their Names Escape Me" is not included.
Personnel Nick D'Virgilio – lead and backing vocals, drums, additional guitars Alan Morse – guitars, backing vocals Ryo Okumoto – keyboards Dave Meros – bass guitar, backing vocals, additional keyboards
Additional personnel Stan Ausmus – songwriting John Boegehold – additional keyboards, guitar, vocals, songwriting Jimmy Keegan – backing vocals
Production Rich Mouser – recording, mixing, mastering
References