Onism by KOYO – Album Review
By Ellie Victor
In the not-too-distant past, the term “prog” was often used dismissively, conjuring images of bloated, self-indulgent musical ventures. Yet, in the hands of modern artists like KOYO, progressive rock has been reborn as an exhilarating blend of genres—eclectic, adventurous, and packed with movement. With their third studio album, Onism, KOYO solidify their place as boundary-pushing purveyors of modern prog.
Opener “La Cucaracha,” KOYO sets a bold tone. A frenetic, riff-driven workout, the track is a statement of persistence, much like its titular cockroach. The funky opening riff dissolves into a heavy psychedelic storm, complete with sloganeering vocals reminiscent of fellow Leeds contemporaries, Yard Act. The ambient coda juxtaposed with more guitar theatrics exemplifies KOYO’s penchant for musical storytelling. It’s a track that declares this album will be anything but predictable.
KOYO, 2024
“Relentless”
“Mechanical Bull” strikes a delicate balance between danceable grooves and 80s-inspired guitar riffage. The track explores themes of stability versus youthful ambition, its crunchy basslines and progressive overtones evoking both introspection and movement. KOYO’s blend of sharp modernity and nostalgic nods ensures the band can resonate with generations of rock fans.
The album’s darker corners reveal KOYO’s versatility. “Hooked” channels the raw power of grunge, recalling Tad’s fierce energy, while “Electric Eel” emerges as the album’s standout. Here, sparks fly from every angle, igniting a ferocious hook before plunging into yet another breathtaking guitar meltdown. These tracks showcase KOYO’s ability to balance the visceral with the cerebral, pushing boundaries without losing their musical footing.
Instrumental “Dark Horse” is for the prog purists. An extended jam that layers intricate guitar work over a relentless rhythm, it’s a cosmic journey begging for a live performance. By contrast, the gentler “Is This Real” sees KOYO flexing their softer side, crafting a rock-ambient ballad that is as ethereal as it is grounded. Edwards’ vocals float atop lush synths and understated percussion, proving the band’s dynamism.
“Triumph”
The album’s pièce de résistance, “Stoneman,” feels like a culmination of everything KOYO excels at. Beginning with a cool, spoken monologue set against a swaggering bass groove, it crescendos into a soaring chorus where Edwards’ falsetto shines. The track’s lyrical exploration of isolation and responsibility is profound, bolstered by the band’s tight instrumentation and bold production.
Onism is a triumph. By melding the raw energy of their debut with the focused experimentation of their sophomore effort, KOYO have crafted an album that feels both timeless and immediate. Their willingness to embrace the unpredictable and the intricate ensures their music will resonate with rock aficionados of all stripes. With this record, KOYO have proven that modern prog is alive, well, and gloriously uncompromising.
8/10
