Album Review: Kytes - Ursa Major, The Great Bear

June 2010 saw the release of Kytes' debut EP; a promising mix of math rock, indie and complicated basslines. It was interesting to say the least. However, 'Ursa Major, The Great Bear' is more than just interesting. It manages to fulfil the promise of the last EP, and it soon becomes clear that Kytes have managed to write another great record.

Setting off with their best foot forward, 'There's Milk On My Lips' is the strongest vocal performance on the EP, and probably builds up to being one of the strongest track overall. The xylophone makes an early appearance, but then again it wouldn't be a true Kytes song without it. 'Oh, Don Piano!' starts off well and again features some very strong vocals, and of course the elaborate bassline this band are known for. The pace is offset with a mellow guitar riff but actually this works brilliantly within the song, creating another memorable, catchy track.

'You Like My New Computer Game' carries on with the same catchy riffs, with a few moments reminiscent of QOTSA. The biggest problem with this track is the vocals; you simply can't understand a word of them. Final track 'This Is Called independent, Guys' has that typical indie twang to it, and is hardly Kytes' most innovative song. It becomes a bit monotonous after a while and ends the EP on a bit of an anti-climax. It's a bit disappointing really, and doesn't do the rest of the EP any justice.

Now I'm not going to lie, it did take me quite a few listens to get into this record. But if you're willing to persevere, it will be worth the effort. Kytes are just brimming with potential and if they carry on this way, their next offering will definitely be something to look out for.

4/5

'Ursa Major, The Great Bear' by Kyets is available now on Bandcamp.

Kytes on Bandcamp, Tumblr and MySpace.

Blaise Ruston