Sumo Cyco

Sumo Cyco

Sumo Cyco is a Canadian alternative metal group from Hamilton, formed in 2011 and active to the present. The band is fronted by Skye Sweetnam, also known as Sever, a Juno-nominated recording artist. The group’s line-up also includes Matt Drake on guitars and backing vocals, Oscar Anesetti on bass and backing vocals, and Joey Muha on drums.

Style and formation

The band works across alternative metal, alternative rock, hard rock, heavy metal, metal and punk rock, and its sound is described as a mix of punk, metal and dancehall. Sweetnam performs under the alias SEVER, while Drake is also known as MD13. The group name combines “sumo”, referring to the Japanese wrestling style, and “cyco”, meaning psychopath.

Releases and collaborators

Sumo Cyco releases a full-length album titled Lost in Cyco City, along with a six-track live sessions EP and seven singles with self-directed videos. Their recordings feature mixes by Julius “Juice” Butty, Matt DeMatteo and Jag Tanna. In 2017 the band announces its sophomore album Opus Mar, which includes a guest appearance from Benji Webbe of Skindred on “Move Mountains”. In 2021 the band releases its third album, Initiation, and later issues a deluxe version with the single “Sun Eater”.

Live work and recognition

The group plays NXNE, Warped Tour Toronto and Indie Week in 2012, before releasing a record. It wins Best Female Fronted Band at the 2011–2012 Toronto Independent Music Awards. One of its videos, for “Interceptor”, gains wider attention after a mishap on set and circulates on YouTube, Ray William Johnson’s channel, MTV’s Ridiculousness and Fail Blog.

Label and personnel changes

In 2020 the band signs to Napalm Records. Drummer Matt Trozzi leaves the group in 2021 and Joey Muha joins as replacement.