CYHRA – The Vertigo Trigger (2023)

Founded by vocalist Jake E (ex- Amaranthe) and guitarist Jesper Strömblad (ex-In Flames), CYHRA has gone from being reminiscent of the duo’s former bands to having an identity all it’s own. With the addition of lead guitarist Euge Valovirta (ex- Shining), and drummer Alex Landenburg (Kamelot) the group have released two critically acclaimed albums: 2017’s Letters To Myself (Spinefarm), and 2019’s No Halos In Hell (Nuclear Blast) – an album which was awarded Rock TV (Japan) “Best Album of 2019″, and given a perfect 10/10 rating by Power Play Magazine (UK).
And now in 2023, having recently added guitarist Marcus Sunesson (ex- The Crown / Engel) the band are ready to return to action with their third, and strongest album yet ”The Vertigo Trigger”.
Despite its ‘metal extreme’ cover art, the music into ”The Vertigo Trigger” is heavy, but filled to the brim soothing melodies, anthemic vocals and hard hitting riffs. This is Modern Swedish melodic metal with a great production sound.

There are eleven tracks on the album, some calling to mind hard rock from days past. For example, the opener is “Ready To Rumble,” and with its melodic dual choruses, it is the perfect example of what you will find on this platter. The vocals are melodic and powerful, if a bit understated for the theme at hand. The guitars steal the show, laying down engaging rhythms and bright flurries in the lead break.
In the second song, “Let’s Have My Story Told,” there is an underlying sense of mystery, brought on by the liberal use of keys. “Live A Little” is midtempo heavy, while “1,000,000 Fahrenheit” raises the energy and the activity level. A hooky chorus lives in this song as well, like they do in them all.

The hit continues with “Life is A Hurricane”, the groove here is very catchy, but the guitar solo midway really spices things up, very edgy, very guitar hero-esque. Another song that features its accessibility comes in “Fear of Missing Out”, with its dark undertones and edgy riffs that are refreshing to hear.
Not a weak moment to be found anywhere, happy to report.

The big production makes the music sound large scale, and the writing is clever. There are plenty of emotional and melodic moments, and there are also some excellent riffs and notable guitar soloing work.
Sometimes melodic and catchy, sometimes heavy and pretty punchy, there is something here for just about everyone. ”The Vertigo Trigger” will surely end up on many top lists of the year for Metal releases.
Highly Recommended

01 – Ready To Rumble
02 – Let’s Have My Story Told
03 – Live A Little
04 – 1.000.000 Fahrenheit
05 – Buried Alive
06 – The Voice You Need To Hear
07 – Life Is A Hurricane
08 – If I
09 – Fear Of Missing Out
10 – Ashlight
11 – Too Old For Fairy Tales

Jake E (ex- Amaranthe) – vocals
Jesper Strömblad (ex-In Flames) – guitars, bass
Marcus Sunesson (ex- The Crown / Engel) – guitars
Alex Landenburg (Kamelot) – drums

Pre order:
amazon.com/Vertigo-Trigger-Cyhra/dp/B0C7LT2C3Z