"Spiral Shadow" should be praised for its inclusiveness and eclecticism. Songs like "Don't Look Back" have melodic tones reminiscent of Torche and even power pop in the riffs and Laura Pleasants' vocals are beautifully subdued in the mix. This adds a sense of atmosphere and psychedelia to the album and gives it its distinguishing character. Carl McGinley and Eric Hernandez's drum performances on this record are tasteful and certainly add something to these soaring riffs and rising leads. On this and other releases Kylesa continue to win me over with their unique two drummer set up. Always focusing on groove and smooth rhythms, Kylesa's percussive technique keeps the band's core elements in tact and allows the music to return to its heavy and primitive form regardless of where particular songs may venture, be it to psychedelia, atmospheric rock, or even pop in the case of "Don't Look Back." "Tired Climb" is a catchy and memorable piece of stoner / sludge and like other tracks on the record seem to hypnotize the listener with volume and restrained angst and tenacity.
Overall I would recommend this album to anyone be they a newcomer to Kylesa or a long time fan. Although clearly a heavy record, I don't necessarily think this album would alienate fans of other styles of music as well, particularly progressive rock or indie rock. "Spiral Shadow" isn't totally a crossover record, but there are moments on the album where Kylesa dares to take chances that other bands simply will not, either because they are too stubborn or not as creatively gifted.
- Joe