Blending elements of prog, electronica, and even 80s pop, Kyros presents a uniquely captivating approach to crafting music, a quality that truly shines on their latest album, ‘Mannequin.’
Commencing with the swirling synthesis of electronics and acoustic guitars in ‘Taste the Day,’ the band initiates the album with an unexpectedly Sufjan Stevens-esque, pop-infused jubilance and lightness, creating a deceptive sense of security.
The opener gradually introduces subtle electronic glitches that evolve into the arpeggiator loop of the YES-inspired instrumental ‘Showtime,’ marking the commencement of the band’s distinctive sound. Boasting impactful drums, rapid runs, layers of interweaving melodies, and a remarkable musical intensity achieved through tightly structured chord sequences and intricate keyboard and guitar licks, the track crescendos into a euphoric guitar solo, featuring eye-watering runs, sweep picking, and soaring tones.
‘Illusions Inside’ exemplifies the band’s full songwriting prowess as they meld bright synth sounds with driving rock undertones, complemented by the catchy melodies of Kyros’ vocalist Shelby Logan Warne and guest Dominique Gilbert. Drawing partial comparisons to Genesis and Peter Gabriel, while retaining the unique virtuoso bass and guitar licks characteristic of Kyros’ sound, the track provides an excellent glimpse into the effortlessly infectious songwriting and vibrant musicality explored across the ten tracks.
A standout single from the album, ‘Esoterica,’ delivers pulsating, driving synths that evolve into an epic, cinematic, and emotive composition. Featuring abundant key changes, lively guitar and synth runs, and an unforgettable chorus, this track exemplifies Kyros at their zenith.
The instrumental interlude ‘Digital Fear’ offers a reprieve from the relentless intensity with a gentle, atmospheric, Blade Runner-esque soundscape. ‘Ghosts Of You’ and ‘Liminal Space’ revisit the band’s prog-synth-pop aesthetics before the album culminates in two explosive, ever-changing epics, ‘Technology Killed The Kids IV’ and ‘Have Hope.’ Transitioning restlessly from serene moments to explosive, high-octane cacophonies of layered guitar and synth, the album concludes in a fittingly euphoric manner.
As a cohesive whole, the album is breathtakingly complex, yet it manages to maintain accessibility and, at times, a distinctly commercial edge—qualities often lacking in other prog bands. While a prog album may not appeal to every listener, ‘Mannequin’ transcends the conventional boundaries of prog rock, offering an infectious listening experience. Kudos to Kyros for delivering a truly profound, dynamic, and gutsy album that flows so well but packs in so many unique ideas.
Listen below:
