It seems like only last week that Joyzine reviewed Sex Mask’s second and self-titled EP, and that’s because it was. Their latest single ‘Lockjaw’ is not one to stay tight-lipped about.
Sex Mask are Vicente Moncada (drums), Wry Gray (vocals), and Kaya Martin (guitars & synths). They are from Melbourne, and despite their fruity name, they are not devoted to detailing tales of filth and smut. They are a perfectly respectable yet raucous post-punk band.
Speaking about ‘Lockjaw’, Gray says it’s “a love song for people who shouldn’t be together. Like vacuoles form the heart, these feelings can only grow in the absence.” As everyone knows, vacuoles are essentially enclosed compartments that are filled with water, which is why data centre architects want to capture them. Hold onto your hearts, everyone.
Sounding as distant and aloof as darkwave master Mareux, Gray sings: “Don’t wanna talk, I got lockjaw / You in the back like a cop car / Don’t say a word ‘cos it’s not hard / I love you most when we’re apart.” The track begins in breezy Blondie-like fashion and becomes as agitated and angular as Bloc Party, with a seething hint of New York Joy Division aficionados Interpol. The ‘Lockjaw’ video features hoodies, shadowy places, weapons, and a very compliant alligator. It’s moody chaos, and that’s why you’ll love it.
‘Lockjaw’ is out now via Unpopular
Sex Mask: Bandcamp | Instagram | TikTok
Review by Neil Laurenson
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