Kyros unveils electrifying fourth studio album Mannequin and captivating single “Ghosts Of You.”
UK prog-synth-rockers Kyros are set to make waves once again with the announcement of their highly anticipated fourth studio album, Mannequin. Scheduled for release on February 2nd via White Star Records, the album will be available on limited edition double orange vinyl, digipak CD, and digital platforms, with pre-orders currently underway. Accompanying this exciting news is the release of their latest single, ‘Ghosts Of You,’ offering a tantalizing glimpse into the sonic tapestry of the upcoming album.
Mannequin promises to be a tour de force, showcasing Kyros at the pinnacle of their creativity and musical prowess. With 10 tracks of intricate prog musicianship seamlessly intertwined with synth-pop influences and adorned with infectiously catchy melodies, the album is poised to be a landmark in the band’s discography. Lead vocalist Shelby provides insight into the thematic depth of Mannequin, describing it as an exploration of the masks people wear and the stories they tell themselves to navigate life’s challenges.
“Our upcoming album, Mannequin, is like peeling back layers of paint on an old canvas. With each track, we’re exploring the masks we all wear, the stories we tell ourselves to get by. This album is a real heart-on-sleeve affair for us, and it’s probably the most ‘us’ we’ve ever sounded. It’s about what happens when the facade cracks and you’re left with nothing but the truth. Nothing but your true self. We can’t wait for everyone to hear it and perhaps see themselves in it, just like we do,” explains Shelby.
The album’s first single, ‘Ghosts Of You,’ serves as a tantalizing teaser, showcasing Kyros’s ability to seamlessly balance 80s-influenced pop melodies with the tight complexity reminiscent of prog legends YES and Genesis. With a foundation built on a bouncing, swing-heavy drumbeat, cinematic synths, and intense guitar and bass lines, the single exudes a vibrant, shimmering euphoria. Shelby’s charismatic vocals take center stage, guiding the listener through a sonic journey that culminates in a guitar solo and a climactic final chorus.
Shelby further delves into the essence of ‘Ghosts Of You,’ stating, “This song captures that haunting feeling of chasing the elusive. A theme that carries through a lot of our songs and especially my writing these days. That feeling of seeing remnants of someone or something that once was. The contrast in styles, mashing inspiration from 90s New Jack Swing with progressive rock and big band elements mirrors the feeling of not knowing how to front yourself.”
As they gear up for the release of Mannequin Kyros continues to build momentum, solidifying their position as one of the most exciting and innovative bands on the UK prog scene. The album promises to be a sonic journey that pushes boundaries and captivates audiences, further establishing Kyros as a force to be reckoned with in the realm of progressive rock.
