Cyphen-Lincoln-4.2.24

Cyphen at 1867 in Lincoln, Nebraska on April 2nd, 2024.

Photos and Review by The Pit Magazine Contributor, Bob DeHart Photography

One of my favorite local bands I have had the chance to see over the past several months is Cyphen. One cool thing about covering a lot of shows, is that you have the opportunities to see a lot of local bands. For major acts coming through the area that do not have a support act travelling with them, the local bands get an opportunity to shine in these moments. Cyphen are a high energy hard rock group out of Lincoln. They come out swinging from the first note each time. I’ve had the opportunity to see them three times now and they really just seem to get better and better each time out.

Cyphen formed in 2022 by bassist Cody Harlan and guitarist Wil Gades. They recruited vocalist Bryant Hunzeker and drummer Josiah Hastings. They have been building a solid following in Lincoln that seems to keep growing. They had the opportunities to open up for national touring acts such as Red, Saul, Vended, and on this night Flotsam and Jetsam. They do more than hold their own during these shows. They show they belong on those stages with those bands.

Cyphen has an infectious energy while on stage and it’s clear these guys love what they do. They are non-stop motion during each set. It’s impossible not to love these guys. Great songs, high energy show, what more could you ask for?

Cyphen has a few a few singles out that you can stream, “Absence”, “Hell Out of Me”, and “All My Sins” are available on Spotify and other streaming services. The good news is that they have a full album release coming out very soon. It’s in the mixing process as we speak. Bryant Hunzeker says “ it’s got 9 tracks of pure adrenaline, so be ready to start watching your speedometers once the album comes out.” I’m looking forward to hearing what they have created. If you get the chance to see them, it is well worth the effort!