Kiethevez – Switch (Digital EP – Kiethevez)
Kiethevez is one of those Swedish Synth-Pop bands that made their mark in the ’90s with melancholic music often reminiscent of Depeche Mode. After years of silence, they returned in 2021 with the “Binary” EP. Now, more than 30 years since they first emerged, the band has entered a new chapter. Switch features four songs that were developed over the past few years and finally completed.
The first two tracks, in particular, stand out—polished Synth-Pop compositions crafted with meticulous attention to detail. The melancholic atmosphere dominates, yet it carries a subtle sense of optimism, offering the listener a feel-good experience. Dreamy piano play blend with deep basslines, all elevated by the mesmerizing voice of Jesper Palmqvist.
The last two songs feel more like B-sides, but the strength of the first half more than makes up for it. (Rating:7½).
Listen to “Pride”:
Read the news on ‘Switch’.
About Kiethevez
Kiethevez formed in Gothenburg, Sweden, where three friends, Tomas Amneskog, Jörgen Falmer and Per-Henrik Sandeskär, began writing electronic music together in 1986 under the name West End. Singer Jesper Palmqvist joined in 1991, and the four-piece adopted the name Kiethevez that year.
The band released the albums “Three Empty Words” in 1994, “Opium” in 1997, and “Non-binary” in 2008, along with several EPs and singles. After a thirteen-year break, Kiethevez returned in 2021 with the EP “Binary”, followed by “Switch” on January 21, 2025.
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I have been working for over 30 years with Side-line as the main reviewer. My taste is eclectic, uncoventional and I prefer to look for the pearls, even if the bands are completely unknown, thus staying loyal to the Side-Line philosophy of nurturing new talents.
