A is for Atom's "Babylon" Signals a Bold Return after Seven Years

After a seven-year absence, A is for Atom returns with “Babylon,” a track that feels something like a declaration. A a bold reintroduction from an artist who has spent his time away gaining perspective and honing his talent.

Mike Cykoski, the man behind the moniker, has always danced on the edges of genre, blending indie rock’s raw emotionality with electronic innovation. In “Babylon,” he doubles down on this signature style, writing a song that’s as introspective as it is adventurous.

Immediately, “Babylon” establishes itself as a track with purpose. A pulsating beat propels the song forward, creating a sense of urgency that mirrors the weight of its themes. The layered textures - rugged grooves, shimmering synths, and bold percussive elements - builds an atmosphere that is expansive and intimate. It’s the kind of production that demands multiple listens, with new details emerging each time. There’s a vibrancy here that contrasts beautifully with the song’s deeper, more contemplative lyrics, offering a glimpse into the complexities of human nature.

Listen in here:

https://open.spotify.com/track/6r8jbzdo5kT84R2b0ph3Si

Cykoski’s lyrical approach feels deeply personal yet universal. The song explores the tension between chaos and clarity, a reflection on the internal and external forces that shape us. He isn't too afraid to sit with these contradictions, and that is part of what makes it so compelling.

But “Babylon” isn’t just about its themes. It is also about how those ideas are expressed musically. The rhythmic core is infectious. Cykoski’s use of synthetic layers and textured drum patterns creates a dynamic tension, one that feels alive and restless.

As the first release from "Out of the Blue", an album set for release in 2025, “Babylon” sets a high bar. It’s a song that feels like a natural evolution for A is for Atom, a project that has always been about pushing boundaries. At the same time, it’s clear that this isn’t just about experimentation for the sake of it. There is an emotional heart which feels very much rooted in Cykoski's own experiences.

For those unfamiliar with Mike Cykoski, “Babylon” is the perfect entry point.

Raised in Colorado, Cykoski’s journey in music began with classical piano lessons, but his fascination with synthesizers and the possibilities of electronic music quickly set him on a different path. After moving to New York City, he dove headfirst into the world of music technology and earned a Master’s degree from NYU and furthering his studies at prestigious institutions like Juilliard, Harvest Works, and Dubspot.

But it was his early work under the A is for Atom banner that earned critical acclaim for its thoughtful lyrics and inventive arrangements. His EPs, Song for You (2014) and Last Man on the Moon (2017), demonstrated his knack for creative storytelling with intricate production, carving out a niche that resonated with audiences around the world. Performances in Ireland, Mexico City, Toronto, and Austin, as well as key stages in New York City, cemented his reputation as a dynamic live performer.

However, life pulled Cykoski in new directions. After stepping away from music, he embraced fatherhood and took on a meaningful role with the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund, an organization dedicated to supporting music professionals in times of need. These experiences clearly left an imprint on his music, infusing his work with themes of resilience, connection, and growth.

"Babylon", then, is a statement of intent. It signals not only Cykoski’s return to music but also his evolution as an artist. There’s a newfound depth to his work, a sense that he’s bringing his whole self to the table.

Whether you’ve been following A is for Atom since the beginning or are discovering Cykoski’s work for the first time, “Babylon” is a track that certainly grips your attention.