CYTRUS - Duality (2025) Hi-Res

Cytrus are described as a psychedelic funk band, so the listener might immediately think of Parliament or more specifically Funkadelic, purveyors of the genre since 1968.

This eight-piece band from Seattle are actually far more accessible and for those who like a fair helping of rock with their funk “Duality” will tick the box.

The standout is what might be termed progressive funk, the groovy 11 minute ‘Outta Control’ which develops into a compulsive jam track and the perfect showcase for the musicianship. The equally lengthy ‘Duality Of Man’ evokes dreamy late-sixties West Coast psychedelia before a groovy meltdown section. Both hark back to the groove of ‘Extraction/Reprise’ from their first album.

Elsewhere, opener ‘Out Of Pocket’ reminds a little of some seventies detective/action movie and ‘Leave The Rest’ adds vocals and harks back to Earth, Wind & Fire with a great breakdown section.

Having just reviewed Lettuce’s latest album (Cook) the main difference is that Cytrus are less R&B, more upbeat, and with greater rock leanings. There’s some great interplay from the horn section and guitar (reminding of late-1960s Chicago Transit Authority), together with excellent keyboard work. In short it’s got all the right ingredients – in its extended moments - for an unadulterated wig out.

The band grew out of two bands who rehearsed in a shared storage unit and were told to move out by the local fire service due to safety considerations. Their debut was released in 2022 (‘Concentrate’ which was more conventional jazz/funk fusion) whilst ‘Duality’ is worthy of much wider attention.