Savannah, Ga.-born Kylesa is unique amongst metal bands. While the common elements of drop-tuned guitars, copious amounts of distortion and shrieking vocals are expected these days, Kylesa has brought a lot of unique ingredients to the table over the past nine years with its four previous albums.
The band’s employment of two drummers creates a sense of rhythmic ambiance, which then intertwines psychedelic, fuzzy and sludgy guitar work. If these elements weren’t odd enough in the current metal scene, Kylesa’s lead vocalist is a woman, Laura Pleasants. While women are front-and-center in countless genres, finding a woman in a metal band is like finding a dyed-in-the-wool metalhead who showers regularly. While Kylesa’s type of music isn’t quite for all fans of the genre, many have compared them to metal heroes Mastodon—some even saying that Kyelsa has now eclipsed Mastodon with their new album.
The album in question is titled “Spiral Shadow,” and with its release, the band continues to defy genre norms and refuses to fit neatly into any singular style of metal music. “Spiral Shadows” is an album full of variety and melody, and sometimes it’s just downright trippy, much like the album’s cover art. It goes beyond being just hard and heavy, though there is still plenty of fist-pumping metal goodness to be found here.
Metal “purists” like myself (i.e. dorks that still think Megadeth is cool) will take delight in the aggressive and thrashy opening track “Tired Climb” or track 10, “Back and Forth.” These two tracks are certifiably headbangable. Those who are more of the stoner type will enjoy consuming their drug(s) of choice and letting “Drop Out” or “Distance Closing In” enhance their experience with psychedelic guitar work and impressive, melodic dual drumming.
The most radio-friendly and upbeat track would have to be “Don’t Look Back,” and I think it makes a good introduction to the band for those who might feel iffy about listening to something out of their normal preference. So if you’re new, jump directly to track five. The tune is upbeat and full of melody, but still has the distinctive Kylesa feel.
The only song that didn’t do much for me was “Forsaken,” as it got a bit boring and just didn’t feel in place with the rest of the songs on the album. Thankfully, “Forsaken” is followed by the title track, which is a great exhibition of guitar skills, melodic playing and the utilization of some really cool effects.
Overall, “Spiral Shadow” is a very enjoyable album that is well executed and refreshing. Many critics and bloggers are giving this album four-star reviews, and I’m inclined to agree that this is a superior work in comparison to other metal releases this year. I’m far from being a stoner (I don’t even smoke salmon, hiyo!) and I’ve never cared much for psychedelic music, but Kylesa has managed to fuse these elements with just the right amount of metal. Those looking to switch up their metal music or who aren’t afraid of something a little different should definitely check out “Spiral Shadow.” ?
“Spiral Shadow”
Kylesa
Relapse Records
Out now
4 out of 5 stars