This emerging London quartet deliver a striking debut that proves gothic post-punk still has plenty to say.
It’s strange what passes for “goth” these days. A bit of eyeliner, a pair of black leather kecks, gravity-defying hair, and all too often the music ends up sounding more like bland electro-pop that wouldn’t feel out of place at the Eurovision Song Contest. It’s so jarring it often leaves me shaking my fist at the moon, shouting, “That’s not f****** GOTH!”
Thankfully, London quartet Mouth Ulcers are something altogether different. Formed by vocalist and guitarist Zak Watson, guitarist and vocalist Josephine Rose, bassist Jamie-Lee Culver, and drummer David Zbirka, the band have delivered a debut EP that embraces the spirit of classic gothic post-punk while sounding refreshingly modern.
Silent Pictures is a confident and atmospheric introduction that proves gothic post-punk still has plenty to say. Drawing on the haunting legacy of Bauhaus, The Cure and Joy Division without simply imitating them, Mouth Ulcers have crafted a sound that feels authentic, brooding and entirely their own.
Across the EP, cavernous stentorian vocals, wiry, nimble guitar lines and melodic, driving bass work combine to create an immersive soundscape filled with tension and emotion. Each track builds its own distinct mood, exploring themes of nostalgia, vulnerability, emotional repression and obsession without ever becoming overly theatrical. Instead, there’s a sincerity here that makes the darkness feel authentic.
The title track stands out as a particular highlight, perfectly encapsulating the band’s cinematic approach to songwriting. It’s edgy, hypnotic and beautifully paced, showcasing just how effective Mouth Ulcers are at balancing restraint with emotional intensity.
What makes Silent Pictures particularly impressive is the confidence on display. For a debut release, it sounds remarkably assured, with every song suffused with brooding, sepulchral beauty. The production is stellar too and allows the menacing atmosphere space to breathe while giving each instrument room to shine.
Having already built momentum through sold-out live shows and a growing reputation on London’s underground scene, Mouth Ulcers seem poised to become one of the UK’s most exciting new underground acts.
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Live Dates
29 JUL – Paper Dress Vintage, London (UK) (sold-out)
14 AUG – District, Liverpool (UK)
29 AUG – Hit The City, Eindhoven (NL)
6 OCT – Sneaky Pete’s, Edinburgh (UK)
7 OCT – Beyond The Music, Manchester (UK)
17 OCT – Neighbourhood Festival, Manchester (UK)
29 OCT – They’re Gonna Be Big Festival, Paris (FR)
30 OCT – Grenswerk, Venlo (NL)
31 OCT – London Calling Festival, Amsterdam (NL)
6 NOV – Kentish Town Forum, London w/ The Mission (UK)
7 NOV – The Warehouse, Leeds (UK)
28 NOV – Post Punk Strikes Back Festival, Porto (PT)
8-11 JAN – Rockaway Beach Festival, Bognor Regis (UK)