Hailing from Omaha, Kilravock is the ambitious new solo project of multi-instrumentalist and producer Steven Wayne Smith. Known for his work with bands like The Alliterates, Lucid Fugue, Megaton and Valley of Shadows, he now brings to life a new side of his sonic vision with this new endeavour. Drawing on a broad array of influences including stoner and doom rock, progressive rock, post metal, industrial and elements of electronic music, Kilravock is here to deliver something entirely new.
As an accomplished musician, he channels his extensive experience into this solo effort, fusing an array of genres to craft a sound that’s unlike anything else. Marking a departure from his past collaborations, the project serves as both an artistic outlet and a platform to share his reflections on identity, society and life from his own perspective.
Kilravock’s debut release features two singles, “Incompatibility” and a cover of John Lennon’s classic “Working Class Hero.” These tracks offer a compelling introduction to the artist’s daring sound and a preview of his forthcoming album, Just Another Wonderful Day.
On “Incompatibility,” an original track entirely performed and sung by Steven himself, he explores the challenges of growing up neurodivergent in a capitalist society. The song distils a palpable frustration, delivered through heavy instrumentation and emotionally charged vocals to deliver a rousing slice of dark and gritty alternative rock music. Driven by pounding drums and splashing cymbals, a hazy wall of guitar textures and intense vocal performance serves up a grooving and highly original sound brimming with angst and energy.
The second single, “Working Class Hero,” reimagines Lennon’s iconic anthem with contributions from Smith’s The Alliterates bandmates Sean Soucy on guitar and David Dick on vocals alongside Anna Schmidt’s striking co-vocals. This cover amplifies the track’s enduring message of determination and defiance, reframing the song for the modern era.
Showcasing the more tender side of the Kilravock sound, the musicians craft a brooding folk rock soundscape where the stripped back acoustic guitar arrangement is met with stacked layers of vocals, resulting in an epic rendition of the timeless song. With “Incompatibility ][ Working Class Hero,” Kilravock makes an emphatic artistic entrance and with his upcoming debut record on the horizon, we can’t wait to see what this exciting new project has in store.
Listen to Incompatibility ][ Working Class Hero below
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