Each project from Singaporean-British singer-songwriter Nat Ćmiel, AKA Yeule, comes as a surprise. Their 2014 self-titled debut EP was a blend of ethereal, processed vocals with melodically driven electronic production, while 2019’s Serotonin II album manoeuvred through dream pop and wistful electronica, and 2022’s breakthrough Glitch Princess produced shuddering dancefloor beats. Their latest record is just as unexpected.
Gone are the digital blips and tender wisps of Ćmiel’s typically unifying falsetto. Instead, the 12 tracks of Softscars are a riotous, high-energy journey through pop punk melodies, screamo vocals and shredding guitars. Opener is a highlight, launching into a thumping drum groove and ear-splitting screams, while equally heavy tracks such as Dazies and 4ui12 balance loud rhythm sections with Ćmiel’s knack for catchy melody, channelling the rough-edged yet refined songcraft of early 2000s alt-metal groups such as Deftones.
Where their previous work explored themes of digital identity and anonymity, Softscars feels wholly embodied. It makes softer moments such as the ambient Inferno and acoustic guitar-strumming Aphex Twin Flame feel out of place, since the album otherwise runs on a driving, energising pulse. This harsh, noise-fuelled musical heartbeat is a thrilling new phase, cementing Ćmiel as a fearless creative voice.
