From the collision of Deftones’ dreamlike, heavy soundscapes, the density of Converge’s hardcore ethos, the grit of underground post hardcore and the shimmering allure of Slowdive, Sheffield’s MOUTHS carve out an interesting space uniquely their own. Their debut EP, A Lower Process, is no mere experiment; it’s a distilled reflection of their influences, crafted with a commitment to authenticity. Across four tracks, the band juxtaposes sludgy, melodic riffs with bursts of unrelenting post-hardcore energy and ethereal female vocals that add a unique touch to the mix.
The lineup itself is an assemblage of Sheffield’s independent talent, bringing together members from NAISIAN, DEAD COSMONAUTS, and I SET THE SEA ON FIRE. Vocalists Adam Zejma and Meg Washington trade roles between searing harshness and ethereal melody, a duality matched by bassist Lex Washington’s heavy grooves and drummer Nick’s explosive precision. The EP also features contributions from Jemma Freese (of MAXIMO PARK), whose vocals and lyrical collaborations on the record bring an additional layer of emotional depth.
What sets A Lower Process apart is the band’s insistence on capturing the rawness of live performance and the feeling of epic, cathartic vibe.
Eschewing modern recording precision, they tracked the entire record live without a click track at Tye Die Studio. This approach found its culmination in the mastering process, entrusted to the one and only, Jack Shirley—renowned for his work with DEAFHEAVEN, OATHBREAKER, and LOMA PRIETA—at Atomic Garden Studios in California.
The themes of A Lower Process are as layered as its sound, drawing inspiration from literature and apocryphal texts. Adam Zejma and Jemma Freese took a deep dive into their favorite works to craft a narrative arc across the EP’s four songs.
Pendulums
The opening song on the EP is inspired by the book “A Canticle for Leibowitz” by Walter M. Miller. It tells of the principal character’s journey on foot to “New Rome” and the theft of his masterpiece work of art.
Leibowitz
Another song about Canticle for Leibowitz, this one focuses on Brother Francis’ return journey from New Rome and his encounter with “The Pope’s Children”.
Informers
Informers was written by the immensely talented Jemma Freese. It draws its inspiration from “The Informers”, a collection of short stories by Bret Easton Ellis which are loosely tied together by a couple of the same characters and linked by their setting of Los Angeles.
A Feast of Days
The final song on A Lower Process, A Feast of Days chronicles bereavement without closure through themes from the apocryphal “Book of Tobit”.
In 2024, MOUTHS proved themselves not just in the studio but also on the stage. Their live performances—including sold-out shows and all-day festival slots—have sharpened their sound and cemented their reputation.
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Speaking on the band’s growth, Nick shares: “We’ve played some brilliant shows this year, and those experiences have pushed us as musicians. The EP launch party on November 22nd was a milestone—it sold out, and the reaction to ‘A Feast of Days’ has been incredible.”
Partnering with Moment of Collapse Records, the band also secured a limited 7-inch vinyl release of A Lower Process.
Looking forward, MOUTHS are gearing up for a Northern England and Scotland tour in April, with a special run of shows alongside Hull’s STILL.
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European dates are on the wishlist as the band works to extend their reach. Nick emphasizes the importance of momentum: “We’re taking every opportunity we can while creating new ones. It’s about growing without losing what makes us unique.”
