Review : KYLESA – “Static Tensions”

Kylesa – “Static Tensions”
released March 9, 2009 by Prosthetic

Savannah’s psychedelic sludge quintet has recruited a new rhythm section for their fourth album, their strongest and most cohesive to date. 2006’s Time Will Fuse Its Worth started unique and memorable, but this changed as the album progressed, with underused members and too many instrumentals weighing it down. Static Tensions takes giant steps forward, with virtually no filler.  After an aggressive one-two punch, they unleash the album’s first great track, and show you they know how to use two drummers. From there, they lull you into a beautiful hypnotic atmosphere (4) before unleashing one of the best riffs of their career (5). I wasn’t as crazy about the rain-soaked lurch of “Nature’s Predators,” but it picks up with a vengeance, with co-founder Laura Pleasants more present behind the mic for the last couple of tracks especially. Above all else, what really shines is the improved songwriting of Pleasants and co-founder Phillip Cope. You’ll have at least half this album burned in your brain after only a few listens. And just to sweeten the pot, we get John Baizley’s hauntingly beautiful artwork.

Definite pick for Best of 2009! 

FCC OK 
Try 1, 2, *3*, 4, *5*, 8, 9, 10

01. Scapegoat
02. Insomnia For Months
03. Said and Done
04. Unknown Awareness
05. Running Red
06. Nature’s Predators
07. Almost Lost
08. Only One
09. Perception
10. To Walk Alone

Rating: