PÝR is the latest EP from Perth rockers Heytesburg, and is only the band’s second ever release. I feel the need to point that out only because they don’t really sound like a band in the early years of their career. As with their first EP, the ambitious and atmospheric From The River I Come, To The Desert I Go there is a real sense of confidence to the recordings. This is a band well aware of where their strengths lie and which sounds suit them.
That isn’t to say there isn’t any experimentation going on. PÝR is very different to the previous EP. The eastern and world influences and stylings have mostly gone, replaced by a more industrial and straightforward rock sound. What has stayed consistent is the atmospheric intensity of the songs. The gents in Heytesburg still have a back for creating music full of atmosphere, with that atmosphere erring towards the ominous, with moody drumming and the occasional chant.
“Epi-primate” is a solid opener, immediately establishing both the mood and some of the underlying musical themes. The drums are particularly impressive, from the opening seconds creating a driving rhythm that continues throughout, providing a solid base from which the guitars can riff against. Vocally the band are as strong as ever, both in terms of range, but also the way in which it complements the mood. “One Below The Pyre” keeps the momentum going, with some solid drumming.
The inclusion of some keys in the mix was a nice touch, adding a slightly different dimension to the track. “Keepers of the Caste” kicks off with a fairly rudimentary rock drum sound, though it’s not long before things get a bit darker, with some ominous synth sounds cutting through the mix. The instrumental, Hidden Track closes out the EP, and closes it out in style. Interesting drumming and atmospheric shouting form part of a sound that in a way successfully combines the sounds and motifs of the band’s two EPs.
PÝR is a solid and impressive release, one which shows a band not afraid to experiment with sounds and styles. At only four tracks you find yourself reaching the end wanting more. The band have become seemingly adept at creating these little concise capsules of atmospheric rock. It’ll be interesting to see what they can manage within the space of a full length album.
8.6/10
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