X is Bringing XMAS to the PNW

It’s been over four decades since X, one of the pioneering forces in American punk rock, blasted onto the scene from the heart of Los Angeles. Formed in 1977, X was more than a punk band—they were a sonic phenomenon that fused punk, rockabilly, and lyrical poetry. With a unique sound and iconic lineup of Exene Cervenka, John Doe, Billy Zoom, and DJ Bonebrake, X carved out an enduring legacy that resonated across generations of music lovers. Now, as they embark on what could be their last hurrah, X has announced dates for their  ‘XMAS’ tour, Putting the X Back in Xmas’ including a series of shows in the Pacific Northwest, possibly marking the final time local fans can see these legends live.

When X released their debut album, Los Angeles, in 1980, the band immediately captured the spirit and grit of the L.A. punk scene. Produced by Ray Manzarek of The Doors, Los Angeles stood out not only for its hard-hitting sound but also for the poetic lyrics penned by Cervenka and Doe. Songs like “The World’s a Mess; It’s in My Kiss” and “Johnny Hit and Run Pauline” voiced the tension and turmoil of their time, making X a mouthpiece for punk rebellion.

Their follow-up records, Wild Gift (1981), Under the Big Black Sun (1982), and More Fun in the New World (1983), solidified their reputation as one of the most innovative and influential bands in punk rock. By blending poetic social commentary with raw, energetic performances, X built a devoted fan base that has stayed loyal through the years.

X’s final album, ‘Smoke and Fiction’, captures the band’s signature blend of grit and poetic depth, with tracks that reflect on the passage of time, love, and rebellion. The album stays true to X’s punk roots, while exploring more nuanced themes, showcasing Exene Cervenka and John Doe’s lyrical interplay and Billy Zoom’s iconic guitar riffs. It’s a fitting farewell that honors their legacy and cements their influence on punk and beyond.

After the release the band began their final tour: The End is Near, slated to last into 2025. Now X has released dates for the final,  farewell ‘XMAS’ tour: ‘Putting the X Back In XMAS’  this will be a bittersweet celebration of everything they have achieved. The ‘XMAS’ tour will hold a special significance, for both the band and fans alike. These final shows will be a tribute to the community they’ve built and a proper send-off to a band that helped shape the sound of American punk rock.

The newly released tour dates include stops in the Pacific Northwest, a region with a long-standing appreciation for punk rock’s raw authenticity and rebellious spirit. For X’s fan base in the area, this may be the last opportunity to see them perform live. The shows promise to be emotionally charged, 2 nights filled with the songs that defined X’s journey and legacy. Dec. 10th and Dec 11th X will be at Tacomas’ Airport Tavern, see all of the stops for ‘Putting the X Back In XMAS’ get tickets to Decembers Tacoma shows here. . 

As X closes this chapter of punk rock history, their influence remains woven into the fabric of the genre. Their departure from touring may mark the end of an era, but their music will continue to resonate with future generations, carrying on the band’s rebellious spirit and commitment to authenticity.

The ‘XMAS’ tour promises an unforgettable experience for fans—a final, raucous holiday gift from one of punk’s most beloved bands. Catch them this season for a chance to say goodbye to X, the band that has always stayed true to their name and their fans.

Don’t miss X in the Pacific Northwest this December—perhaps for the very last time. Tickets are expected to sell quickly, so fans are encouraged to grab theirs while they can.