By Daniel Warren Hill
In order to treat various health issues related to intracranial diseases, a surgical procedure known as ‘trephination’ is performed, which removes a section of the skull, revealing the sensitive brain tissue underneath.
The latest single by Los Angeles-based Psyclo, called “Trephination,” shares that theme with the level of precision one would hope from such a delicate process. From her upcoming EP, “Slaughter House,” the song is intended to be a therapeutic exploration of Psyclo’s struggle with guilt, inner thoughts, death, hurt, and the human brain’s functionality while providing a vessel of healing for listeners and an opportunity to escape reality for a few minutes. Finding solace in singing and songwriting, Psyclo states, “I feel guilty that I want to forget about all my problems for a moment. I feel guilty when I’m stuck in a downward spiral. I feel guilty when I sleep too much but can’t get out of bed.”
Unlike songs sharing a similar concept by rock band The Jesus Lizard and metal band Machine Head, Psyclo’s “Trephination” is a much more cerebral process than a literal one, an important element supported by the lyrics, as well as the visuals in the official music video directed and edited by Psyclo. She had stepped away from video projects for a while but once again found herself behind the camera again to satisfy her vision of releasing the music video simultaneously with the track and found inspiration through the process, confirming, “I was reminded how passionate I was towards filmmaking,” while also acknowledging her preference for solitude and a focus on her artistry: “But still towards the end of the shooting day, I just wanted to go back to my home studio, sit in front of my computer by myself, making music with no other humans involved.” It is clear that Psyclo’s creative outlets are universally connected to working through these complex feelings herself while empowering listeners to do the same.
“Making music is my therapy, my only way to escape, a way to heal,” says Psyclo. “I want my people to feel that they’re not alone.”
Expect more raw, uncensored, and revealing tracks like “Trephination” as Psyclo’s “Slaughter House” EP makes its way to your favorite listening platforms. “Trephination” is available now on Spotify and YouTube, as well as on Alchemical Records’ playlist. For more information about Psyclo, visit her on Instagram.
Daniel Warren Hill is an American musician, writer, and motivational speaker. He is best known as the frontman for Washington DC area Alternative Rock band YellowTieGuy, as co-founder of Capitol Groove Collective, and increasing the exposure of artists on a global scale through his work with Alchemical Records.
Join the Alchemical Records Street Team to promote these and other artists, live music, and music community organizations & events while receiving cool perks from artists throughout the region.
Allie Goertz is back with a brand new, mature, raw, and honest version of herself with “Peeled Back”: a tribute to Nine Inch Nails.
On June 21, D.C.-based pop-rock artist LJR released “You”, the fifth single from his forthcoming album “When the Sky Began to Fall”.
The D.C.-based band released their sophomore album, “The Renewal”, on June 30th.
Alchemical Records is a Washington, D.C. based music publication. We cover the Washington, D.C., Baltimore and Richmond, VA metro area music scenes, including band interviews, articles about your favorite musicians, new music and concert dates.
