King's X has never wanted to be a typical band, and this holds true for their ninth album. While the songs are not as immediate as their earlier works, the arrangements on Manic Moonlight are progressive and jazzy with clever hooks that might require a few listens to sink in--but after that they become irresistible. There's also more of a funk influence here, with album opener "Believe" setting the tone with a fine groove. "Skeptical Winds" explores the style more deeply with touches of R&B and soul, and the heavy bass line coupled with hard-rock crunch on "Vegetable" is truly original. "Static" experiments with dark ambient rhythms and odd samples, becoming a wall of metallic noise and screaming guitars. The wonderful lush harmonies that have been a King's X trademark are present on the melodic "Jenna" and the dreamy, uplifting "False Alarm," which stand strong next to the album's harder moments such as "Yeah" and title track. It's another fine album from this very talented and underrated band. --Gail FlugManic Moonlight, the 9th King's X (Metal Blade), is yet another compelling piece of maximum artistry. Still in abundance are the trademark vocal harmonies, intricate arrangements and catchy melodies.