PICK OF THE WEEK: "Los Angeles" by X

A punk rock prayer for L.A.

With so many in our immediate and extended community profoundly affected by the ongoing California fires, we wanted to take a brief moment to pay tribute to Los Angeles with one of the greatest artworks made in its honour - the album “Los Angeles” by X.

Led by married couple John Doe and Exene Cervenka, who met at a poetry workshop, X were a band who transcended the “punk” label while also being considered one of the greatest punk groups of all time.

Produced by Ray Manzarek of The Doors, the “Los Angeles” album drew inspiration from the burgeoning punk scene Doe had seen forming on the East Coast. As for why he moved to the City of Angels, Doe stated, “It’s the place of dreams, my friend.”

Doe and Cervenka’s co-authored lyrics are written in character: noir snapshots with a fatalistic vision of Los Angeles told through a flawed cast of characters with raging, reckless impulses.

This album is full of the complexity, creativity and rage that embody the dynamism of L.A.

Play it loud today.

And while you do, please consider supporting Sweet Relief Musicians Fund; the non-profit helping musicians and music industry workers in need. They have launched a natural disaster relief fund for those in Los Angeles County and the surrounding areas. Applications are also open for those seeking relief, with funds raised going toward loss of music-related equipment, medical bills related to the fires and other vital living expenses. https://www.sweetrelief.org