April 8, 2014

Kylesa - From the Vaults, Vol. 1

Review by Natalie Zina Walschots. Originally published here by Exclaim.

Artwork by Shaun Beaudry

This collection of rarities from Savannah, GA's Kylesa is more than a curiosity and, in some respects, is a revising of parts of their catalogue. From the Vaults, Vol. 1 features one entirely new song, entitled "End Truth," in addition to alternative versions of tracks that have been featured on other albums. The record also features a cover of Pink Floyd's "Set the Controls for the Heart of the Sun."

Kylesa 2011. Photos by François Carl Duguay.

From the Vaults isn't Kylesa's leftovers, but rather a glimpse into alternate universe versions of their material — tracks as they might have been had they followed alternate paths. The songs don't sound like demos, with care and concern obviously put into their presentation, often being remixed and refurbished, which give the songs weight and gloss. The throbbing, powerful drumming is always front and centre, driving through the thick, muscular sludge. From the Vaults is a collection of b-sides presented and packaged as a full-blown studio release, and it's worth the effort.


[Go to the post to view the Bandcamp player]

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