New Music: YZBL – Lobotomy

For the uninitiated, Lobotomy is a thrillingly resonant and sonically caustic introduction to the music of YZBL.

The standout opening number from the recently released Hermaphrodite LP, it finds YZBL (pronounced Jezebel) venturing ever further into the darkest reaches of the music underworld. The beats are doomy and industrial with hints of Godflesh; the bass veers into dub; the guitars are reminiscent of blackened metal and the untamed drone of SUNN O))).

The vocals prowl the spaces in between, untamed and unleashed. Just think of it and Hermaphrodite as ASMR for the willingly damned; you’ll find yourself willing to pay the price to have this music in your life. It’s also a brave album, as YZBL’s comes to terms with dysphoria and internalised transphobia, looking for a way forward in an ever more uncertain world.

Hermaphrodite was released on the 7th of August via Feral Crone Recordings. The CD edition has already sold out but is available in digital format on Bandcamp in CD and digital editions.

The album and previous releases by YZBL are streaming on Spotify and Apple Music – be sure to connect with YZBL on Instagram for artist updates and other listening options.