Kyrbgrinder aren’t your average metal band. For starters, they’re only a 3 piece, comprising guitarist Tommy Caris, bassist Dave Lugay and drummer Johanne James (who also plays drums for Threshold). It gets even more interesting when you realise that the man behind the kit is also their lead vocalist, managing to sing while performing some of the most proficient live drum work I’ve seen in a long time (dream on Phil Collins).

“Cold War Technology” is a very accessible album, with well written songs that are great live and on the CD. It opens with the song “Cynical World” jumping straight into some kickass bouncy riffs and a catchy chorus. “My Heart Bleeds” is a cracking tune that exemplifies all the strengths of this record: sing-a-long chorus, groovy riffs, and tasteful guitar solo. Also notable is well executed cover of “Heart Shaped Box,” displaying a more modern take on the classic Nirvana tune. The closing track “Where Do We Go From Here” highlights Kyrbgrinder’s proggier side, featuring some nice odd-time riffage for those who are a fan of such things and a rather tasteful guitar solo, overall a nice way to round off a cracking album.

The production on this record is some of the best I’ve heard in a long time, with all the instruments standing out quite clearly and the mix not being overly compressed as many albums are nowadays. My only minor criticism is that the drums could stand to be a tad louder behind the vocals, though this is more than made up for with awesome guitar tone and crystal clear vocals.

“Cold War Technology” is a kickass album that contains some of the finest material I’ve heard come out of the UK metal scene. The bouncy drums, groovy bass and fluid guitar playing will get your head bouncing along with the beat and catchy choruses will have you singing along before you’ve finished playing each one. If you ever get the chance to see Kyrbgrinder live, do it, and pick up the CD while you’re at it, you won’t regret it.

9/10

Al Holdsworth