Not to be confused with the veteran California-based punk band X, California X is a rock group hailing from Amherst, Massachusetts whose sound recalls the heavier and sludgier side of ’80s and ’90s alternative rock, while maintaining a tuneful core amidst an aggressive, growling guitar attack.
Formed in 2012, California X was initially a power trio, featuring guitarist and singer Lemmy Gurtowsky, bassist Dan Jones, and drummer Cole Lanier. Within a few months of forming, California X made their debut with a cassette-only EP release, Sucker/Mummy; the initial tape edition was self-released by the band, and was later reissued on vinyl by the U.K. label The Sounds of Sweet Nothing.
In 2013, the New York City punk label Don Giovanni Records struck a deal with California X, and released their eponymous debut album, which gave the band more room to tinker with their high-volume attack and hook-laden tunes. For their second album, the band made a few changes, adding second guitarist Zack Brower and joining forces in the studio with producer and engineer Justin Pizzoferrato, whose résumé includes sessions with Dinosaur Jr., Sonic Youth, and the Pixies. California X’s second album, Nights in the Dark, was released in January 2015.
California X is available for corporate events, private shows, milestone celebrations (birthday, anniversary), fundraisers, festivals, and more.