Softscars: A Peek Into Yeule's Cyber World

Yeule sheds their skin in their third album, softscars, opening the curtains of their bedroom to the world. Pairing their familiar electronic sound with guitar tones crying out and ambient textures bubbling to the surface, yeule takes us along their journey to find inner peace. From conversations with their younger self in “sulky baby” to commentary on society’s treatment of those who struggle with mental health in “software update,” yeule publicly shares their scars, displaying a deeply vulnerable side of themselves.

Hailing from Singapore, Nat Ćmiel—also known as yeule—shows how much Southeast Asia has to offer. Alongside Singaporean native and executive producer Kin Leonn, yeule reflects on past trauma, self-identity, and finding beauty in their own scars. From softer, acoustic songs like “aphex twin flame” to punchy, hardcore songs like “xwx,” this album creates a tangible chaos for the listener to immerse themselves in.

A self-ascribed hikikomori, yeule uses the internet to disassociate from reality. They see the internet as a space to express the sides of themselves they can’t in the physical world. Often struggling to leave their house, this album dives into this isolation. With songs like “cyber meat,” yeule breaks free, bearing their “electric bones” and “cyber meat” with playful melodies and grungy guitars. 

Our favorite track “ghosts” feels like yeule reaching out their hand to guide you through their cemetery of past love. The airy tone of their voice partnered with dreamlike, glitchy rhythms lulls you into a cathartic embrace. In a world of false promises and non-committal commitment, yeule offers a safe space that makes you feel heard. 

If you want to check out more of their discography, we’d recommend “Bites on My Neck,” “Tint,” and “Poison Arrow.” Currently on tour in Europe with their band consisting of sasami on guitar and fitnesss on drums, they sound amazing live and are a show you can’t miss.

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About the Author:
From ambient and electronic to shoegaze and indie, Josh--a Thai-American writer from the U.S.--has been obsessed with music as long as he can remember. Through music journalism and interviews, he hopes he can show the human side of artists that often gets swept away.