Over a year ago, music’s indie scene was struck with the hit, “Why Is It Light Out” by Salt Lake City’s very own The Kilans. Fronted by Jack Ongman and Jacob Shultz alongside Cooper Brezoff (bass) and David Wiseman (drums), they have recently released a tour and an upcoming album featuring a mix of “explosive” and “soft” tracks. 

The Kilans formed in 2023 following Ongman’s lengthy hunt to create the perfect band. “I just never found the right musicians.” Then, after a guitar session between Ongman and Shultz, things changed. “I knew it was right, it was instant chemistry,” said Ongman. Brezoff and Wiseman were co-workers at In-N-Out and also mutual friends of Ongman. They later bonded over music, and soon after, got together, and The Kilans were born. 

The album

“The new project sounds explosive from the rip and slowly transitions into beautiful, soft ballad-style songs. I’m really excited for the people to hear,” Ongman said.

While a title hasn’t been locked in, it’s going to be something meaningful for the band, highlighting the central themes throughout the album: intrusive thoughts, a girl, binge drinking, anxiety, and more. 

The album was recorded in seven days at BLVD Recording Studio in Hollywood by Utah native and independent producer, Kyle Henderson. 

“The vibe in the studio was pretty amazing,” Henderson said, “It felt like a bunch of best friends watching skate videos and joking around, doing what they love.” Despite the lighthearted moments, the band came in with a clear vision. “We wanted something that sounded real and raw, but huge,” he explained, “It’s about the parts and each person’s style being heard and recognized, but still cohesive all in one.”

Shultz said the album has been a more collaborative process than their recent works, and describes it as a “darker and more mature sound.” Henderson calls the record “real and true to the moment in time.” He agrees with the darker tone compared to the previous recordings. 

Past singles like “BGR” and “The Colonel” have hinted at the evolving style, but the new project aims to reach new heights. Previously, they used catchy choruses and riffs to attract their audiences, making it more of a sing-along experience. Now, creating a more emotional and dark sound, they show the true essence of The Kilans. 

The group is most excited for the track “Red Couch.” “I think it’s going to shake things up, it’s something fresh. It’s a darker sound that goes more into the Rock Route,” Ongman said.

The tour

“The Tour Before the Album” kicks off this September in Santa Ana, California, and concludes in Kansas City. They’ll perform in new venues, similar to their previous tour, with similar expectations and plans to showcase some of the album alongside their released singles. While a show has not been set for Salt Lake, there will “probably be one when the time comes,” Ongman said. 

“Our mindset is just to put on the best show we can and have fun,” Shultz said. 

The group live is a must-see with their spirited and charismatic dynamic. Ongman’s flamboyant stage persona, combined with Shultz’s laid-back and relaxed guitar playing, is just the right amount of chemistry. 

“Our live shows feel very raw and emotional. Everyone in the band really tries to bring as much energy into it as they can,” Ongman said. 

While the tour will hit several notable cities, Shultz said he’s most excited for their debut in Chicago.

“I know they have a really good music scene there with things like the Lollapalooza festival.”

Songs to stay with you

The music they are creating isn’t just for fun, but also feels personal. They’re searching for the audience to draw relatability and take something away from it. 

“I want it to be a kids’ gateway album into the world of rock music and an album they never forget where they were when they first heard it,” Ongman said. 

While we wait in anticipation, singles will be released periodically in September, and the full-length album will be released in April of 2026. 

With an album that unveils raw honesty and the band’s unique chemistry, The Kilans are stepping into their next chapter and want you along for the ride. 

“I want it to be a project that will spin forever and ever,” Ongman said.

For more information regarding the tour and album, you can visit The Kilans’ Instagram page.