I had never heard of Ecca Vandal until I was standing in the photo pit at a Pierce The Veil show. The venue escort was gushing about how excited she was to catch her set. I don’t remember the exact conversation or what was said, but I know she said Ecca Vandal was dark, different, and a very cool artist. After taking photos during the first three songs, I watched the rest of her set from my seat and was absolutely blown away by every second. Her energy was raw, real, and unique. Her voice has a raspy quality that drags alongside the bass beats in the music. Knowing what she’s like live, there are feelings I experience listening to this new track that are hard to describe, because it translates so well into the song.

The set was dark, with minimal lights and a few spots that flashed briefly. She had blue hair and wore a pink jacket with a frilled skirt and tights covered in stars. It was an outfit that spoke to her sound and everything she embodies. The outfit was alternative, yet carried a feminine quality. She owned the stage with such a powerhouse presence in front of the crowd. I’ve seen a lot of opening acts, especially ones I’m not familiar with, and she exuded an unspoken aura — she meant business.

I think it’s so cool, especially with this song’s purpose of being inspired by the act of self-renewal — purging oneself of fear, labels, and judgments, and finding something brighter. Ecca Vandal said the song is about shedding the version of yourself molded by fear and creating a brand-new self. Her new single, “BLEACH,” captures all of that and more, with rap-influenced bass lines. She fuses punk, hip-hop, and jazz influences, all coming together into a unique sound that is unmistakably Ecca Vandal. She is effortlessly herself — authentic and true to everything she wants to be in her music, and it’s beautiful.

I would definitely snatch up a ticket to see her live again — maybe she’ll grace Milwaukee with a show later this year? I can only dream of artists coming to town, since it looks like I’ll have to make several trips to Chicago or Madison this spring for shows. I can’t wait to see what else Ecca Vandal has in store for us, but for now, go stream “BLEACH” and watch the official self-directed music video!

Otherwise, catch her at Coachella this April or as she tours with Deftones in May. 

“BLEACH” by Ecca Vandal is out now and you should listen to it!

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