Release Date: March 6, 2026
Label: KBK Records
Spanning many decades and an infinite number of timelines, The KBK is most known for delivering their Apocalyptic Testament since 2005. That statement is part of their introduction on their Bandcamp page. Based on that, I would expect to hear some highly energetic music on Human Sounds Vol II!
“CQ 02:15” opens with a message to the masses as the drums kick in and electronic sounds fill the air; the dialogue continues as the epic soundtrack builds in intensity. The guitar is the leader, with the bass and drums following in purposeful unison. This is technically sound and a dramatic start.
“Giallo, Rosso, Blu” continues with the force of this band’s power reaching high points. I am reminded of the legendary sound of Man or Astro-man?. This is very complex and layered with synths, drums, bass, and wailing guitar lines. It feels like going to the cinema and watching an epic scene in Dolby 7.0 surround sound.
“Transmission Statement” continues the strong momentum as the surf instro influence makes its first appearance. The dialogue of transmissions is heard, then, for the first time, some vocals. This rocks, and they have not let up since the opening note of the first track. This one cranks with all the elements I love to hear, like rock, surf, and just flat-out non-stop energy.
“S.I.B” starts with a sci-fi flair from the synth, then gradually builds as the drums set the pace. The lyrics and vocal style mirror those of the track’s creator, DEVO. The acronym stands for Swelling Itchy Brain. A very strange track! I like that they are talented enough to step entirely away from their usual sound and cover this with a nod to the originators.
“SK” clocks in at 10 minutes and 1 second. So, get ready for a ride! It begins with steady, repetitive sounds of whooshing air, what could be a wave, a tapping, and a synth that sounds like it’s sending Morse code. It’s like a drone, and you are wondering in which direction all of this is going to go, and I must be honest, I don’t like this at all. It intensifies in tempo and sound, but there is not much variation. Up to this point, I thought the album was good, but I just didn’t get this and found it quite annoying. After 8 minutes, I had to turn it off.
Human Sounds Vol II stands out as one of the most unique and diverse releases I’ve encountered this year. The opening trio of tracks is outstanding, packed with energy and creativity, while the fourth and fifth tracks didn’t resonate with me as much. Although there’s a brief surf-influenced segment on the second track, the album is largely instrumental rock, showcasing the band’s willingness to experiment.
Approaching this release with an open mind is essential, as it caters to listeners with eclectic tastes who appreciate musical exploration. As this EP serves as a preview for an upcoming full-length album, I’m genuinely curious to see how the band further develops their sound.
Credits:
Chris Eagle - Keys, Vocals
Noah Holt - Guitar, Keys, Vocals
Josh Jackson - Drums, Vocals
Erek Smith - Bass, Vocals
Produced by The KBK and Breihan Dryden
Mixed and Mastered by Breihan Dryden
Artwork by John Derek Simmons
All Songs by The KBK except S.I.B by Mark
Mothersbaugh
Keith
“MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Surf Music and Art Founder
March
13, 2026
Tracks:
1. CQ 02:15
2. Giallo, Rosso, Blu 03:23
3. Transmission Statement 03:58
4. S.I.B. 04:38
5. SK 10:01
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