X (Spock's Beard album) explained

X
Type:studio
Artist:Spock's Beard
Cover:SpocksBeardX.jpg
Released:May 2010
Recorded:2009–2010
Studio:The Mouse House in Altadena, California, US;
Clear Lake Audio, North Hollywood, California, US
Genre:Progressive rock
Length:79:49
Label:Mascot
Producer:Spock's Beard
Prev Title:Live
Prev Year:2008
Next Title:Live at High Voltage Festival
Next Year:2011

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.[1] 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.[2]

Track listing

Notes
The above track listing is for the special edition. There are a few changes with the standard edition:

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.[3] [4] [5] 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."

Personnel

Additional personnel

Production

Notes and References

  1. Web site: SPOCK'S BEARD NOW SIGNED WITH MASCOT RECORDS . July 1, 2010. June 28, 2010.
  2. Web site: Inside Out Release . 20 April 2022.
  3. Web site: Metalreviews Review . 20 April 2022.
  4. Web site: Prog Sphere Review . 20 April 2022.
  5. Web site: Prog Snobs Review . 20 April 2022.