SYKOFANT – Red Sun

The previous effort by the musically devious Norwegian prog rockers Sykofant, namely the self-titled album from last year, inhabited and exuded so many wonderful traits and positives that it became one of the highlights of 2024 to this scribe. The ferventness and vigor of said record also permeates this delightfully spirited EP of theirs named Red Sun, which is slated for release in late March. Three lengthy compositions that contain both energy and sophistication in spades not to mention a uniquely surreal atmosphere that is unlike anything else out there, these highly motivated and talented gentlemen have sharpened their claws and crafted an even catchier output than last year’s offering. There is an infectious immediacy and a life-affirming quality to its tracks, and the vocals simply sound great on top of the ingenious arrangements and edgy riffs. Psychedelic and intelligent, organic and inventive, crunchy and exhilarating – no other act but Sykofant could have written or played these tunes with such confidence, joy, and determination. In short, Red Sun is surprisingly accessible yet warrants an endless amount of listens as it just keeps on giving.

Prog with a difference seems an apt description in terms of how Sykofant pack drama, action, pulsating bass lines, clever drumming, mind bending riffs, and a solid dose of something otherworldly into a dynamic brand of forward-thinking music. File under experimental and superbly performed music.