X-HOORAY

To all the narrow-minded idiots who choose to constantly attack X, and on a more personal and cruel level, Exene herself:

First of all, what does it matter if an X song has four chords or 10? Has musical sophistication and flashiness replaced pure power and emotion in importance?

Second, X’s lyrics are more intelligent and heartfelt than any of the unctuous product put out by Phil Collins, Madonna, Lionel Richie or any of the other safe, homogenized and wholly commercial acts that rule the airwaves these days.

Lastly, it is a cheap, cowardly shot to attack Exene. Her voice is in now way “awful”; in fact, she possesses a voice and singing style full of emotional intensity and honesty. And who cares what she looks like? Wouldn’t it be a boring world if all women looked like Madonna and her stomach?

X is one of the best bands ever to come out of L.A., and they’ve done it by refusing to conform to commercial expectations. Their music is adventurous and made for people with adventurous tastes, who are tired of the Top-40 merry-go-round. Nobody forces you to listen to X, so if you can’t stand the heat, get the hell out of the soul kitchen!

MIKE LASKAVY

Sun Valley