One of the most explosive tracks from Tyketto’s 2016 album Reach, showcasing the band’s renewed energy, razor‑sharp musicianship, and their ability to blend classic melodic‑rock hooks with a harder, modern edge. It’s a fan‑favourite cut that proves Tyketto were never just a nostalgia act—they were still writing songs with bite.
The Song in Context
After reuniting and touring heavily through the 2010s, Tyketto entered the studio with a refreshed lineup and a clear mission: create a record that honoured their roots while pushing forward. “Kick Like a Mule” appears early on Reach, setting the tone for an album that’s punchy, melodic, and full of attitude.
The lineup for this era included:
- Danny Vaughn – vocals
- Chris Green – guitars
- Ged Rylands – keyboards
- Chris Childs – bass
- Michael Clayton Arbeeny – drums
This formation brought a modern precision to the band’s classic sound
What “Kick Like a Mule” Sounds Like
The track is fast, gritty, and built for the stage. It leans into a heavier, more aggressive style than Tyketto’s early‑’90s material, without losing the melodic sensibility that defines them.
Musical highlights include:
- a driving, muscular guitar riff from Chris Green
- Danny Vaughn’s powerful, seasoned vocal delivery
- a rhythm section that hits hard and tight
- a chorus built for fists‑in‑the‑air live moments
It’s a song that lives up to its title—sharp, forceful, and full of swagger.
Trivia and Lesser‑Known Facts
- Reach was recorded in Wales at the legendary Rockfield Studios, where Queen, Rush, and Oasis also recorded.
- Guitarist Chris Green brought a heavier, more modern guitar style that shaped the album’s overall sound.
- “Kick Like a Mule” quickly became a staple of the band’s live set due to its energy and crowd‑reaction.
- The album was funded in part through fan support, reflecting Tyketto’s strong grassroots following.
- Danny Vaughn has said the band wanted Reach to feel “alive and urgent,” and this track embodies that goal.
The Band’s State in 2016
By the time Reach was released, Tyketto were in a creative renaissance. They were touring internationally, attracting both long‑time fans and new listeners, and proving that their songwriting remained sharp decades after their debut.
The chemistry of the 2016 lineup gave the band a fresh spark—tight, professional, and hungry.
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