Out Of The Silent Planet

Zoo Freaks, get ready to groove with the Zoo Crew as they spin "Out of the Silent Planet" by King's X from their iconic album Gretchen Goes to Nebraska. This track, which kicks off the 1989 concept album, sets a mystical tone with its droning sitar and powerful metallic chords, creating a sound that feels like it’s beaming in from another dimension. The song’s title draws inspiration from C.S. Lewis’ science fiction novel of the same name, a nod that ties into the band’s knack for weaving spiritual and exploratory themes into their music. According to a 1990 interview with drummer Jerry Gaskill, the album’s concept—centered on a girl named Gretchen on a spiritual quest—was initially a playful idea that evolved into a deeper narrative, though the liner notes’ story remains delightfully abstract and open to interpretation. Fans on ProgArchives have praised the track’s progressive edge, with one reviewer noting its “silky sitar chord” and bold energy as a standout moment that announces the album’s ambition.

Diving deeper into the song’s impact, "Out of the Silent Planet" has been celebrated for its innovative sound, blending progressive rock with soulful harmonies and heavy riffs. A post on X from April 2025 by user @jussiertio highlights the album’s enduring appeal, quoting lyrics from another track but showcasing the vinyl love for Gretchen Goes to Nebraska. Guitarist Ty Tabor’s use of drop-D tuning, as noted on Rate Your Music, gave the song a distinctive, futuristic vibe that caught listeners off guard in the late ‘80s. The track’s structure, with its lack of a traditional solo and eerie background noises, adds to its otherworldly feel, making it a favorite among musicians like Devin Townsend, who called the album one of his top five influences. Despite its critical acclaim, some fans, as seen in ProgArchives reviews, prefer the raw energy of this song over the album’s more polished moments, cementing its status as a cult classic.

King's X began their journey in the late 1970s in Springfield, Missouri, when bassist/vocalist Doug Pinnick and drummer Jerry Gaskill, who had crossed paths while working with Christian rock artist Phil Keaggy, teamed up with guitarist/vocalist Ty Tabor. Initially called The Edge, the trio played Top 40 covers in local bars and clubs, honing their chemistry. By 1983, they rebranded as Sneak Preview and released an independent album, but it wasn’t until they adopted the name King’s X and signed with Megaforce Records in 1987 that they found their stride. Their debut album, Out of the Silent Planet, released in 1988, earned praise from artists like Pantera’s Rex Brown and Dimebag Darrell, who were inspired by its fresh sound. The band’s unique blend of progressive metal, funk, soul, and gospel-influenced harmonies, combined with introspective lyrics about faith and self-acceptance, set them apart in the hard rock scene.

Stay connected with King's X through their Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts, where they share updates on tours and new music. Fans can also join the vibrant community on the King’s X Facebook Group, a hub for Zoo Freaks and longtime devotees to discuss the band’s discography and share concert memories. For more in-depth fan content, check out King’s X Online, a dedicated fan site with news, discography details, and forum discussions. Whether you’re spinning "Out of the Silent Planet" or diving into the band’s rich history, King's X continues to inspire with their soulful, genre-defying sound.