San Francisco-based progressive metal band CYBORG OCTOPUS is set to release their second studio album, Between The Light And Air, on August 26th.
In the landscape of progressive metal, CYBORG OCTOPUS has been noted for their eclectic blend of styles. Their music is a fusion that goes beyond typical metal boundaries, incorporating elements from various genres. This approach has not only defined their sound but also distinguished them in a genre that thrives on innovation.
Between The Light And Air promises to be a continuation of this trend. Early previews suggest that the album will showcase a blend of technical proficiency and creative storytelling. The tracks are expected to navigate through complex rhythms and melodies, showcasing the band’s ability to weave intricate musical narratives.
Recorded in the band’s home city, it reflects the band’s dedication to capturing the essence of their sound. The production team has worked closely with the band to ensure that the album’s sound is both polished and true to their artistic vision.
CYBORG OCTOPUS’s approach to this album appears to be a conscious effort to push their musical boundaries. This is evident in their choice of themes and the way they have structured their songs. Each track is not just a display of musical prowess but also an exploration of deeper themes, something that is relatively new to their repertoire.
Cyborg Octopus: A Journey Through Change and Evolution
As I sat down with frontman Ian Forsythe, it became evident that embracing change has been their cornerstone. The conversation weaved through their recent California tour, the departure of a long-time band member, and their upcoming album “Between the Light and Air.”
The band’s recent gigs in Sacramento, San Francisco, and Fresno marked a return to familiar grounds. “It was the first real hometown show we’ve had in quite some time,” he reflected, hinting at a mix of nostalgia and excitement. Many venues, once staples in their early career, had shut down over the years, making their return to San Francisco not just a gig but a homecoming.
The departure of their bassist, George, after a decade marked a poignant moment for the band. “Sad times, George, we love you,” he said, his voice tinged with sadness and pride. George left to pursue a master’s degree, a move the band wholly supports. This change wasn’t just about losing a band member; it was about seeing a brother embark on a new journey. The emotional weight was palpable as he recounted giving George a final hug after their last set together.
Their music, described as a blend of the unconventional and the experimental, reflects a deep bond among the members. “Doing this kind of music that we make, really not caring about what the rest of the world thinks, it’s like a real brotherhood,” he mused. This brotherhood extends beyond the current lineup, as the band has seen its fair share of members come and go. Yet, the core essence, the soul of Cyborg Octopus, remains unaltered.
The conversation naturally drifted to their upcoming album, a product of six years of growth, learning, and transformation. “Between the Light and Air” is not just another album; it’s a reflection of their journey. The process of creating this album was markedly different from their debut. “We thought a lot more about how we can make one crazy song instead of individual crazy parts,” he explained, highlighting their evolved approach to songwriting.
The visual aspect of their work is as thought-provoking as their music. Daniel Bogni, a Brazilian artist, created the cover art for the new album, which features fantastical worlds as a nod to Forsythe’s love of video games and fantasy. This art is more than just an accompaniment to the music; it’s a visual representation of their journey towards self-actualization.
In a world where vinyl is making a comeback, Cyborg Octopus is not one to shy away from innovation. The band worked closely with their label to produce three variants of vinyl for both the new album and the re-release of their first. This endeavour, he noted, was a challenging yet rewarding part of the album release process.
Looking back at the band’s evolution, it’s clear that their journey has been one of constant adaptation. From releasing an EP in 2011 to embarking on their first tour in 2014-2015, every step has been about pushing boundaries. With the departure of the original guitarist, David, the lead found himself as the de facto leader, steering the band through these changes.
Their sound, a unique blend influenced by everything from disco and R&B to metal and pop punk, is a testament to their diverse backgrounds. Bands like System of a Down and Between the Buried and Me have been significant influences, shaping their approach to music. This eclectic mix is evident in their work, where they successfully merge varying genres into a cohesive sound.
Discussing their aspirations, Forsythe says that touring with bands like System of a Down or Amon Amarth would be a dream come true. These bands, known for their distinct fan bases and musical styles, align with Cyborg Octopus’s ethos of embracing the unconventional.
The band’s upcoming plans are as dynamic as their music. With a new bass player joining soon, they are gearing up for a tour in October and another significant run in February and March of the following year. Their approach to live shows is as unique as their music. A perfect Cyborg Octopus show, according to him, requires a good venue, a sound person open to feedback, and an audience ready to embrace their distinct sound.
Their philosophy towards music and performance is refreshingly candid. “We take the music seriously, but we don’t take ourselves seriously,” he stated. This attitude allows them to experiment and push boundaries without the fear of judgment. In an industry often obsessed with image, Cyborg Octopus stands out for their willingness to embrace vulnerability and authenticity.
“Between the Light and Air,” set to release on August 26th, is not just another album drop; it’s a milestone for Cyborg Octopus. It encapsulates their growth, their evolution, and their steadfast commitment to their unique sound. In a world where music often feels manufactured and repetitive, Cyborg Octopus is a breath of fresh air – a band unafraid to chart their own course, regardless of the challenges that come their way. As they continue their journey, one thing is certain: they will continue to surprise, innovate, and above all, stay true to their vision.
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