Cyhra - Requiem For A Pipe Dream (2026)

As the super ground started by Jesper Strömblad and Jake E, Cyhra consistently releases quality albums full of melody and highly engaging songs. With “Requiem For A Pipe Dream”, the band returns with another bombastic release filled with catchiness and soaring vocal melodies. Featuring eleven tracks and over 38-minutes of music, the band further cements their status as one of the most dynamic and explosive Modern/Groove Metal outfits.

Opening with the explosive “Bleed With Pride”, we get that playfulness that bands like Amaranthe and Cyhra bring to the table with upbeat keyboards and soaring vocal lines. The signature rhythm guitars of Jesper Strömblad are instantly recognizable from the opener and through crafty pieces like “Superman”, “Miss Me When I’m Gone”, and “”Ghostbound”. Euge Valovirta handling the lead guitars always finds ways to deliver some captivating leads on tracks like “In The Center Of A Miracle”, further rounding up the guitar department.

While the songs are short and direct, tracks like “Skin From Bones” and “Mark Of My Sins” also give some later Dark Tranquillity vibes, catering to the traditional Melodic Death Metal crowd sans the harsh vocals. Catchiness is the band’s specialty and songs like “Venom in Me” are perfectly designed and delivered to stay in your head for days on end. Rounding up the super group, we have Alex Landenburg, from Kamelot and many others fame, delivering a top notch drumming master class, keeping all songs tight and explosive when needed.

As a whole, “Requiem For A Pipe Dream” is a superbly solid release full of engaging music and extreme catchiness. While there might continue to be haters for the band’s more Modern/Groove Metal style, there is certainly enough heaviness here to contrast with the melodic nature of the vocal lines and atmospherics. If you are a fan of Amaranthe, The Halo Effect, Dark Tranquility, and similar outfits, this band should definitely be in your radar.

Rating: 92/100