Ever wonder what happens when a metal band gets bored with their peers? Sylosis did, and it led them down an incredible rabbit hole of prog rock legends like Opeth, Tool, and Rush! Discover how these unexpected influences completely reshaped their sound and songwriting. What unlikely artists inspire your favorite bands?

British metal band Sylosis has embarked on a profound artistic evolution, moving beyond the confines of their immediate peers to discover a rich tapestry of progressive influences. Frontman Josh Middleton reveals how a shared feeling of uninspiration among his bandmates led them down an unexpected path of musical discovery, ultimately reshaping their approach to songwriting and sound.

Middleton’s personal journey into the realm of progressive music began with Opeth, a band that served as a pivotal gateway to the more classic sounds of prog rock. This exploration led him to seminal figures such as Steven Wilson, whose intricate compositions resonated deeply with the band’s growing desire for sophisticated musical structures.

The impact of bands like Opeth on Sylosis cannot be overstated. While not an obvious stylistic influence, their meticulous approach to blending death metal with classic 70s progressive rock inspired Sylosis to think critically about incorporating diverse elements and ideas into their own compositions, striving for cohesion rather than a disjointed amalgamation of styles.

This artistic shift is evident in Sylosis’s discography. Albums like their 2011 release marked a significant step towards a more progressive metal sound, while their 2015 offering further embraced classic prog elements. Middleton highlights how certain tracks intentionally echo the stylings of iconic progressive rock bands, showcasing their deliberate evolution.

As the members of Sylosis mature, their musical tastes gravitate towards more sophisticated and intricate forms of expression. They increasingly draw inspiration from the foundational artists of progressive rock, such as Rush, finding a depth and complexity that is often absent in contemporary heavy music.

Sylosis aims to achieve a similar synthesis as Opeth, blending the raw power of old-school thrash with the melodic and progressive intricacies of classic rock. This pursuit of a unique sonic identity involves exploring anything that offers both melodicism and progressive structure, creating a distinctive sound that stands apart.

Reflecting on their creative process, Middleton draws a parallel to Kate Bush, explaining that their “normal upbringings” mean they often gravitate towards fantasy and prog-inspired themes when writing. This reliance on imaginative narratives and complex musical frameworks allows them to explore broader artistic horizons beyond personal experience.

Ultimately, Sylosis has forged a path of continuous artistic growth, distinguishing themselves by thoughtfully integrating the intellectual rigor of progressive rock into their heavy metal core. Their journey is a testament to the enduring power of diverse musical influences in shaping a band’s unique and evolving identity within the modern metal landscape.