Cynic cult are an Irish alternative hard rock/metal band. They consist of Shay Davitt (composer, producer) and Tommy Duffy (Lyricist, vocalist). Having spent years playing in the Irish underground metal scene with bands like Marabou and I'd fight Gandhi, the two friends decided to collaborate and bring both of their musical and personal influences together in the form of Cynic cult. On January 27th the band released the single Fallen, and plan to follow it up with another single 'The Tides', followed by an ep 'Triad'.
"Fallen" Single Review
The track kicks off with atmospheric tones before steadying itself with a much more Rock tone. The dark, brooding nature brings to mind an almost A Perfect Circle like vibe. There's a build that erupts with the chorus as it takes off running. The second verse dips back down to its previous laid back pacing. The vocal range is awesome as it keeps up with the soft and heavy instrumentation. The three minute mark sees the bridge feature a guitar solo that transcends the track even further. The chorus joins back in as the trakc closes out in passionate style.
Verdict:
Get lost into the world of Cynic Cult with their incredible new single.
-Interview- (2/12/23)
1. How did you get started with music and how did you develop your sound? Who thought of the name "Cynic Cult" and is there any meaning behind it?
Shay: I began playing music when I was around seven. Music is a massive part of my family, dating back to the early 60's when my Grandfather and his brother formed a showband. This spawned an insane amount of musicians in our family. I was lucky enough to be introduced to bands like Alice in chains, Helmet, Tool and all the good stuff when I was a kid back in the mid 90's and it had a massive impact on my own playing and writing. Cynic Cult was originally the title of a song, and I guess it represents what I want us to become.
2. What do you want people to take away from your music?
Tommy: I want them to feel connected, and to know that they are not alone. I've been bullied and beaten, mentally tortured and abused but I am still here, stronger and more determined!
3. How would you describe your sound to the average listener?
Tommy: Our sound is a nice mix of progressive rock and metal with a mixture of melodic and harsh vocals.
4. Who are three bands you’d like to tour with?
Shay: A perfect circle, Deftones, (Devin Townsend, Tool, NIN, Karnivool) there's too many..
5. How has Covid affected what you do?
Shay: We are mainly an online entity so playing wise it did not have any affect, though having to work insane hours through it as an "essential worker" had a big impact on getting to write and record.
6. What’s your take on the current state of Alternative Rock/Metal?
Shay: To be totally honest I have no idea what state it is in. I'm a creature of habit, so I usually just go to my old favourites, and they all seem to be doing just fine.
7. What's the current music scene like there in Ireland?
Tommy: There are a ton of really good bands here, some well established and plenty on the rise. It's in a good place.
8. What’s your take on the royalties that streaming services pay out to artists?
Tommy: It is what it is unfortunately.
9. What’s next for Cynic Cult?
Shay: We have some releases on the way. A new single, and an EP, so keep an eye on our socials for updates!
