Kylesa – Static Tensions

March 16, 2009 by Editor
Filed under 2009 Releases, Album Reviews

Kylesa
Static Tensions

Released: March 17, 2009
Record Label: Prosthetic Records

Review:

Savannah, Georgia’s Kylesa returns with their fourth full-length album, Static Tensions. On this album, the band shows they are no longer content to just make noise. Their previous work was focused on being heavy and raw while their latest album is more thought-out but still aggressive. The band proves that they can evolve their sound from typical sludge metal to something more.

The music on Static Tensions will still knock you on your ass. Kylesa has learned to temper raw emotion with moments of musical introspection. The songs aren’t continuously forced on you by being in your face. The band takes a more organic approach and lets the listener consume the music at their own pace… with an occasional throttling by the throat just in case you get too comfortable.

The production of this album is what you’d expect from a sludge rock/metal band. Kick-ass drums, fuzzy guitars, and drowned out vocals. Close your eyes and you almost feel like you’re at a show. Add some sweaty bodies and stale beer smells and the illusion is complete. I especially like how Phillip Cope and Laura Pleasants split vocals duties which really helps to enhance the band’s sound.

Static Tensions illustrates what good bands should do during their careers; demonstrate some level of growth by putting out music that doesn’t follow the same tired formula each time, have fun doing it, and shake things up. Kylesa has certainly shaken a few things up this time.

Track Listing: