Tastes Like Rock Magazine

Kyshera - Circle

Alternative Rock

Konic Records

Posted 3/10/15 - 2:00 PM EST 

Tastes Like Rock - Kyshera - Circle Review
Tastes Like Rock - Kyshera - Circle Review
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Another example of the great alternative rock currently coming out of the UK, almost like another NWOBHM with alt rock over heavy metal. I have a soft spot for alternative rock, some of my favorite bands from growing were alternative, but the state of alt rock in the US has been less than the "glory days" of 80s and 90s alternative bands. Too much flirting with and trying to absorb other genres, at best should be considered subgenres of alt rock, like emo and dub step. Granted, this largely big label driven business decisions for Stateside alt, there are still a bunch of great unsigned and indie alt bands; but truly the best stuff is coming from United Kingdom bands right now. And Kyshera is just about everything that is right with alternative rock, engaging sounds, thought provoking lyrics as well as heartfelt lyrics that don't dip into pop or emo territory.




The Cardiff, South Wales based three piece has cut an album that is all their own sound, at points you hear some influences in their compositions, but these never overcome the band's identity. They are good, and exactly what the industry needs right now, big sound but without compromise in their words and their music, I took three listen through sessions before writing this review... it's been a while since I've done that for enjoyment, Circle is going on this reviewer's personal playlist now.



Kyshera also covers several different types of alternative sound on Circle, and they showcase how tight of a trio the are with each song. There are songs that land closer to hard rock, some that even get close to arena rock, and back to a more emotionally centered form of alternative rock; on that last one, think Smashing Pumpkins except consistently good. Pacing is fitting for the number of styles that play across the 12 track album, even on the slower tempo pieces like "Gone" there is never a desire to hit the Skip button; even when the lyrics hit close to home.



Track List:

  1. Napoleon
  2. Behind These Lies
  3. Demon
  4. Gone
  5. The Wrong Size
  6. Break This
  7. Endgame
  8. Coma
  9. Inertia
  10. Helen
  11. Full Circle
  12. The End


Choice cuts are "Demon", "Helen", and "The End".



Kyshera gets a 4.5 out 5 for Circle.



Kyshera is James Kennedy on Vocals and Guitar, Matt Warr on Bass, and Glyn Bateman on Drums. For more from Kyshera visit www.kyshera.com.



- Michael Meade