Go Time!’s tenth album, X, is here, and it’s a strong addition to the band’s catalog—but it’s not without its quirks. For fans of Chicago’s rock veterans, X feels like both a celebration of their past and a step toward something new. As someone who dove into their earlier albums to prep for this release, I can say that while X has plenty to love, it also highlights just how much Go Time! has evolved over the years—for better and for worse.

Let’s start with the positives. X is packed with energy, and the opener, “Cost Time Commitment,” is proof that Go Time! knows how to kick things off. It’s loud, unapologetically fun, and feels like it belongs in the band’s hall of fame for killer openers. This track grabs you right away and reminds you of the raw power that made Go Time! a staple in the Chicago music scene.

“What I Needed” is where things get interesting. The slower tempo, comparatively, and addition of unexpected textures show the band experimenting with their sound, which is exciting. At the same time, though, this track doesn’t hit quite as hard as some of their past mid-tempo staples. It feels like Go Time! is trying to find a middle ground between their classic rock roots and something quirkier. For some listeners, it might be a bit of a hit-or-miss moment.

“Turning Tides” is a highlight for me—it’s just two minutes long, but it’s all killer, no filler. The track is tight, punchy, and gives you that adrenaline rush you’d expect from a band that thrives on live performances. It’s a perfect example of what Go Time! does best: cutting to the chase with no unnecessary fluff.

That said, as you move deeper into X, the album starts to feel like it’s trying to do too much. Songs like “Complicated Truth” and “Long Term Concern” are solid on their own, but back-to-back, they don’t quite pack the emotional punch of similar tracks on earlier albums. Compared to Go Time!’s more cohesive records, X feels a bit sprawling. With 17 tracks, it’s ambitious, but not every song lands with the same impact.

Still, you can’t help but respect the effort and heart behind this album. The band faced significant challenges during its creation, from health issues to personal loss, and you can feel that grit and determination in songs like “Damaged Goods” and “Discarded Receipts.” Even when the pacing falters, the emotional core is there, and it’s clear the band poured everything they had into this project.

Compared to earlier albums, X is a more reflective and experimental record. While it doesn’t hit the same consistent highs as fan-favorites like Boneshaker, it still delivers plenty of standout moments. If you’re new to Go Time!, this might not be the best starting point, but if you’re already a fan, X is worth exploring. It’s not perfect, but it’s an honest, ambitious, and often thrilling ride.

Garth Thomas