This marvellous EP from Sykofant completes the musical project which began with the last release Red Sun.

NEATLY SEGUED MUSIC

Where Red Sun explored the harshness of the desert, Leaves by contrast sees an encounter with the deep forest and consequently the music is more lush . Each piece on this three track EP neatly segues together to recreate the many features of the forest and is as multi layered as the forest itself.

We begin with etheral effects and a single note developing into a languid acoustic guitar in Roots and Canopy. All is calm and serene as the classical tones gain momentum punctuated by gentle licks before we feel like we are floating higher . The lyrics suggest the forest is playing with your mind and the music too lets your imagination go wild.

RISING AND FLOWING TENSION

The we delve deep into the underground with Mycellium. There is a Floydian One Of These Days te,poto this as the music churns and growls with some brutish guitar. As we resurface and reach The Heart Of The Woods; the classical acoustic guitar returns but pacier and more pounding tones are revealed as staccato guitar and percussion add to the wavering vocals. The tension rises with crunchy chords and manic hefty lick supported by blistering, pulsating percussion. Finally melancholy returns as dreamy chorals accompany tender acoustic guitar . The poetic and meaningful lyrics enhance the rich palette of music.

THRILLING LISTEN

Fluctuations in pace and texture heighten and lower the senses,. The dynamics change at a seconds notice making for a thrilling listening experience without the musical clutter and airy-fairy lyrics often associated with thematic rock.

The plan is to combine both the Red Sun and Leaves EPs (on digital release now) to make a complete album available in the Spring on vinyl and CD.

Here’s the full EP:

Sykofant: Website

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