Ecca Vandal breaks genre boundaries in new album, “Looking For People To Unfollow”
Ecca Vandal makes her long-awaited return after nearly ten years with her latest album, “Looking For People To Unfollow,” which defies genre boundaries and showcases her refusal to conform to industry expectations. Teaming up with Richie Buxton, Vandal’s seventeen-track album is a whirlwind of punk, rap, electronica, and alternative rock, embodying a blend of abrasiveness, humor, vulnerability, and chaos that challenges the status quo. The album’s diverse soundscapes serve as a refreshing departure from the predictability of the Australian music scene, marking Vandal’s impactful comeback.
When Ecca Vandal burst onto the music scene with her self-titled debut in 2017, she brought a disruptive energy that blurred the lines between hip-hop, punk, electronica, metal, and pop, setting her apart from the mainstream. However, just as quickly as she emerged, Vandal seemed to disappear, with fans eagerly awaiting new material. Her creative hiatus saw her isolating herself with Buxton, immersing themselves in a world devoid of internet distractions or industry pressures, resulting in the raw and unfiltered essence of “Looking For People To Unfollow.”
The album’s dynamic tracks showcase Vandal’s refusal to conform, seamlessly transitioning between different styles and moods. From the simmering intensity of ‘Airplane Mode’ to the explosive fervor of ‘Eyes Shut,’ Vandal’s music is a rollercoaster ride of emotion and energy. Tracks like ‘Sorry!Crash!’ and ‘Bleed But Never Die’ embody Vandal’s signature fusion of punk ethos and catchy hooks, while ‘Cruising to Self Soothe’ captures a sense of triumphant isolation.
Amidst the sonic chaos, Vandal infuses humor and wit into her lyrics, adding depth and dimension to her music. Songs like ‘MOLLY’ and ‘Dance in Debt’ showcase her ability to balance sarcasm with vulnerability, creating a captivating listening experience. The album’s unexpected shifts in tone, from introspective tracks like ‘Okay Not To Be Okay’ to the rhythmic exploration of ‘Levitate Part 1 + 2,’ highlight Vandal’s versatility as an artist who seamlessly navigates between genres.
Vandal’s live performances, such as her recent tour with Deftones, showcase her electrifying stage presence and ability to captivate audiences with her unbridled energy. With “Looking For People To Unfollow,” Vandal continues to push boundaries and challenge conventions, proving that she is a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. In a time where political discourse often revolves around immigration, Vandal’s music serves as a poignant reminder of the cultural richness and diversity that defines Australia’s music landscape.
Ultimately, “Looking For People To Unfollow” is a testament to Vandal’s creative spirit and unapologetic approach to music. After a prolonged absence, she returns with a renewed sense of purpose and passion, infusing her music with a raw and unfiltered energy that sets her apart from her peers. Vandal’s fearless exploration of sound and style cements her status as a visionary artist who continues to defy expectations and challenge the status quo.