San Antonio Set for a Punk Rock Send-Off as X Takes the Stage
This Saturday, San Antonio is gearing up for a special evening as the iconic Southern California punk band, X, rolls into town for what is being dubbed their farewell tour. The show takes place at the historic Charline McCombs Empire Theatre, where fans old and new are expected to come together to celebrate the group’s impressive legacy.
The End of an Era
X’s latest album, Smoke & Fiction, marks their ninth studio effort and potentially signals the end of their journey as a touring band. Exene Cervenka, the band’s founding member and frontwoman, shed light on what the term “farewell tour” really means for X. “The final tour means we’ll play until we can’t play anymore,” Cervenka expressed in a recent interview. “It’s more about the gradual retreat from being a rock band on the road rather than a hard stop.”
Hitting the Road Once More
While many bands hang up their guitars and drumsticks after a final tour, Cervenka pointed out that this is not the case for X. “We have never ever stopped touring. We’ve been playing consistently since 1977,” she said. The group was ready to hit the road following their last studio release in 2020, but the pandemic put plans on hold. Finally, they are back on stage, bringing their music to life once again.
A Creative Comeback
The band’s last studio album, Alphabetland, was produced in 2020 and marked a significant moment in their long history. “I’d been badgering them to make a studio album for 15 years,” Cervenka admitted. Initially resistant due to financial constraints of the music industry and digital streaming services not paying much for records, the band managed to reclaim their old work and partnered with Fat Possum Records, unlocking the path to create new music.
Producing New Sounds
Getting back into the studio was made seamless with the help of esteemed producer Rob Schnapf, who also produced their latest album. Cervenka shared, “It was easier because we were familiar with the process after recording Alphabetland. Rob is super positive and creative, providing great suggestions without changing who we are as a band.” The newly forged partnership showcases how the band has evolved while staying true to their punk rock roots.
A Show for the Ages
As the band prepares for their San Antonio show, Cervenka assures fans that they’ll be playing a mix of new tracks and classic hits. “We will play different old songs on different nights because we have two new albums,” she explained. Fans can expect an engaging set that includes songs from both Smoke & Fiction and Alphabetland, acknowledging the older audience demographic and their preferences for the night.
Final Thoughts
With the concert just around the corner, tickets are still available for those eager to witness this momentous occasion. Priced between $39 and $70, the experience promises a fun-filled night where music fans can reminisce and celebrate the band’s legacy.
Cervenka wrapped up with a light-hearted reflection on the band’s time on stage: “You get dressed up and sing, what more do you want out of life?” The spirit of X is alive and well, and fans should take this unique opportunity to join them for what might be the last time on stage. Don’t miss out on this punk rock farewell in San Antonio!
