Kylesa, the influential sludge metal band from Savannah, Georgia, has been a staple in the metal scene since their formation in 2001. Known for their unique blend of psychedelic rock, punk, and stoner metal, Kylesa has carved out a distinct niche. Although the band has been on a hiatus since 2016, the members have remained active in various musical endeavors, contributing to the evolving landscape of heavy music.
Phillip Cope’s Side Projects
Phillip Cope, one of Kylesa’s founding members, has continued to explore new musical territories. In 2017, he announced his new project, Oakskin, which delves into a darker, sludge-infused sound. Oakskin’s debut track “Prey” showcases Cope’s signature heavy riffs and atmospheric layers, indicating a promising direction for this new endeavor (Metal Insider | Get Inside the Industry).
Laura Pleasants’ Involvement in Slower
Laura Pleasants, Kylesa’s guitarist and vocalist, has also been busy with new projects. She recently joined the supergroup Slower, a band that reinterprets classic Slayer tracks with a sludge metal twist. Slower’s lineup includes notable musicians such as Amy Barrysmith (Year of the Cobra), Bob Balch (Fu Manchu), and Esben Willems (Monolord). Their debut album, set to release in January 2024, promises to bring a fresh take on iconic songs like “War Ensemble,” adding a new dimension to these metal classics (Sonic Perspectives).
Kylesa’s Legacy and Influence
Even though Kylesa is currently not active, their influence continues to be felt in the metal community. The band’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of heavy music has inspired numerous bands within the sludge and stoner metal genres. Their distinctive sound, characterized by heavy, riff-driven compositions and psychedelic elements, remains a touchstone for fans and musicians alike (Kylesa Music).
Reissues and Merchandise
In September 2023, Kylesa began shipping reissues of their self-titled debut album. This move was part of an effort to keep their music accessible to both new listeners and long-time fans. The reissues have been well-received, reflecting the enduring appeal of Kylesa’s early work. The band also continues to offer a variety of merchandise, maintaining a connection with their dedicated fanbase despite their hiatus (Kylesa Music).
Touring and Live Performances
While there are currently no scheduled tour dates for Kylesa, the individual members’ involvement in various projects keeps them in the live music circuit. Pleasants’ participation in Slower and Cope’s work with Oakskin suggest that fans might still have opportunities to see these musicians perform, albeit in different contexts (Metal Insider | Get Inside the Industry) (Sonic Perspectives).
Conclusion
Kylesa’s hiatus has not diminished their impact on the metal scene. With members like Phillip Cope and Laura Pleasants continuing to innovate through new projects, the spirit of Kylesa lives on. Their music remains influential, and their ongoing reissues and merchandise keep their legacy alive. Fans of the band can look forward to new music and performances from the members’ various projects, ensuring that Kylesa’s creative energy continues to resonate within the heavy music community.
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