Some quick research into the origin of the name of this Dutch ska and early reggae outfit formed by current and former members of The Upsessions and De Hardheid, left this reviewer blushing: a Sybian, it turns out, is nothing less than "a sex machine designed for women in the shape of a saddle, featuring a motor-powered rod with interchangeable rubber attachments to stimulate the genital area, operated via remote control.".
By Jah Rebel
That certainly puts the title of their debut album, ‘Saddle Up With The Sybians’, recorded at Amsterdam’s Earth Work Studio, into context. The Sybians’ repertoire is similarly laced with cheeky, tongue-in-cheek slackness that’s more naughty than nasty.
While frontman Benjamin ‘Ben’ Stiels’ vocals didn’t fully win us over, the album’s instrumental moments, like ‘Tinder Touch’ or ‘Burru Fever’, shine thanks to the expressive trombone playing of Giel Mulder and especially the rich, vintage organ work by both Giel and Boudewijn ‘Bou’ De Held.
Just like its namesake machine, The Sybians certainly won’t be for everyone, but for lovers of playful, groove-heavy retro ska and reggae, it’s a wild little ride!
