I’ll admit it—rock music isn’t usually my go-to genre. My playlists lean more toward folk, pop, or whatever’s trending on the charts. So when I sat down to listen to X, the latest album by Chicago rockers Go Time!, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. But by the time the final track ended, I found myself nodding along with a newfound appreciation for what I’ve always thought of as “dad rock.” And you know what? That label isn’t a bad thing at all.
WEBSITE: https://gotimebandchicago.com/press
Go Time! is a band with a rich history, having released ten albums and built a reputation for their energetic live shows. They’ve earned acclaim both locally and internationally, but X is my first real introduction to their music. As someone who doesn’t typically listen to rock, I was surprised by how much I connected with the album. It’s approachable without being watered down, filled with catchy hooks, thoughtful lyrics, and just the right amount of grit to keep it grounded.
The album opens with “Cost Time Commitment,” a high-energy track that immediately grabs your attention. It’s the kind of song you could imagine blasting from car speakers during a road trip, and it sets the tone for the rest of the album. From there, “What I Needed” introduces new musical elements like and fun percussion that add a playful twist. I loved how these little surprises kept me engaged, even as someone who isn’t deeply familiar with the genre.
“Turning Tides” was another standout for me. Its brevity doesn’t detract from its impact—in fact, it makes you want to hit repeat just to soak it all in again.
What struck me most about X was its balance of intensity and introspection. Tracks like “Complicated Truth” and “Damaged Goods” touch on heavier emotions, but they’re countered by lighter, more relatable moments like “Don’t Lose Your Wedding Ring.” The lyrics always manage to feel genuine and unpretentious, which is something I’ve always appreciated in any kind of music.
As for the sound, it’s definitely rock, but it’s not overwhelming for someone like me who might be more used to acoustic guitars than electric ones. There’s a warmth and familiarity to the music that reminded me of the classic rock my dad used to play when I was a kid. That’s where the “dad rock” label comes in—not as a critique, but as a compliment. It’s the kind of music that feels timeless, like it could appeal to multiple generations without losing its edge.
By the end of the album, I felt like I’d been on a journey.
Go Time!’s X didn’t just win me over—it made me curious about the rest of their discography. For someone who doesn’t normally listen to rock, this album was an eye-opener. If you’re like me and think rock isn’t your thing, I’d encourage you to give X a try. You might just surprise yourself.
Mindy McCall
