They’ve been bringing the low-end fuzz for over two decades and now the Northern Irish three-piece are back with their third full-length, Simple Beasts. I’ve seen the band a couple of times, most recently on their co-headline tour with Blind River in May and their groove blended with heavy riffs works even better in the live setting.
Inspired by the current environment and state of the world, particularly the pressures of social media, Skypilot take aim and scream their frustrations out through eight thick and chunky tracks that bring huge riffs, lyrics that resonate and a thunderous drum sound. The first single “Octofuzz” remains an earworm, the massive riff and sheer size of the song looming large from the start.
There’s an element of understatement about the band, letting their music do the talking rather than being at all flash. It’s this simple approach, which is most endearing, allowing you to concentrate of the power that is unleashed. It’s laced with darkness, drama, and also simply damn fine thick sludgy hard rock.
The title track crashes in with all the subtlety of a bull in a China shop. It appears sedate and meandering until the chorus kicks in, the riffs punish, and the essence of Sabbath appears. But don’t be fooled into believing Skypilot are stoner clones, for although they veer that way, there is plenty of soul, blues and rock that underpins their sound. “Klusterfun” draws from a variety of influences, most noticeably Kyuss, but still comfortably manages to retain the Skypilot sound that the band has forged over the past 20 years.
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“Jazz Club” allows Skypilot to change things around, whilst “In the Face” sees the band in expansive and reflective mood. Both tracks retain the trademark guitar and bass working in synchronised tandem, and both sit comfortably in the centre of the album. At times the music feels effortless, a credit to the way in which the trio have crafted their sound.
Recent single “Knifed on the Beach” is one of two tracks that clock in at over seven minutes and it’s a fine way to bring this captivating album to an end. At no time do you lose attention, the heaviness is compelling, and the music holds your focus. Great to drive to, listen to with headphones or hopefully, in the live arena again soon, Skypilot’s latest release is one that certifies them as one of Northern Ireland’s most impressive bands.
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Simple Beasts is out on August 19th
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