Back catalogue: Industrial/Noise

Review: Uboa's Impossible Light represents a profound evolution from the dark, ambitious sound of The Origin of My Depression. Xandra Metcalfe's latest work melds inhuman textures with visceral human emotions, creating a unique blend of dark intensity and raw beauty. The album opens with 'Phthalates', a track that combines haunting vocal samples with jittery percussion, setting a controlled yet expansive tone. 'Endocrine Disruptor' features a striking contrast of serene arpeggios and explosive beats, highlighting Uboa's ability to juxtapose beauty with darkness. Lyrically, the album reflects a heightened urgency, addressing themes of trans experiences and societal othering with a stark, direct approach. 'The Puzzle' delves into oppressive, heavy synths and percussive blasts, while 'Gordian Worm' evolves from harsh noise to a more structured electro-industrial sound. Tracks like 'Pattern Screamers' are dynamic with a strong vocal performance amid corrupted, mechanical noise. 'Jawline' and 'Weaponised Dysphoria' flow seamlessly, with 'Jawline' transitioning from choral elements to harsh electronics, and 'Weaponised Dysphoria' reversing this progression. 'Sleep Hygiene' contrasts intense noise with reflective breaks, portraying the struggle with illness and recovery. Overall, Uboa's capacity for blending darkness with hope, making it a poignant and essential listen. This version comes on coloured vinyl.

Review: Uboa's Impossible Light marks a significant shift from the ambitious darkness of previous work. Xandra Metcalfe's latest release merges otherworldly sounds with raw human emotion, creating a captivating blend of intense darkness and poignant beauty. Throughout Impossible Light, Uboa explores a heightened sense of urgency and directness, particularly in addressing themes of trans experiences and societal marginalisation. Tracks like 'Endocrine Disruptor' contrast serene melodies with explosive beats, while 'The Puzzle' immerses listeners in heavy synths and impactful percussion. 'Gordian Worm' transitions from harsh noise to a more structured electro-industrial sound and 'Pattern Screamers' delivers a powerful vocal performance amid distorted, mechanical noise. The seamless flow between 'Jawline' and 'Weaponised Dysphoria', alongside the emotional depth of 'Sleep Hygiene', underscores Uboa's skillful talent at balancing it all.