BEX – SUM KINDA SYKO single review

Vanadian Avene’s absolute favourite nu-metal indie artist BEX is back with her newest single and it’s a very important one. “Sum Kinda Syko” sends a powerful message to those who are stalking, threatening and sexually abusing female artists in the music business. Sadly, this type of criminal behaviour is not only limited to the entertainment or arts, it can happen to anybody, anywhere, at any time. The sooner our society realizes this is never acceptable, under any circumstances, the better. And BEX is making sure the message will ring loud and clear.

Single cover by BEX

“Sum Kinda Syko” really struck a chord with listeners. Within 24 hours of releasing the song, BEX received thousands of views and many comments from fellow artists and audience members. It’s shocking to read how many females (and men too!) are dealing with harassment and sexual abuse at gigs. I really could pen a separate article about my own experiences, and many people would nod their heads in agreement. This dark side of the nighttime/ entertainment business must really be taken more seriously than it is being dealt with now. Sexual abuse has serious consequences that can be life changing for the victims. And I need to be clear about what constitutes sexual abuse – it’s not just cat calling, or unwanted hugs or grouping at picture takings. It is smashing into other gigs goers especially into young female audience for sexual gratification, grabbing others by hair, trying to undress people in mosh pits, not allowing them to leave, pressing against people at bars, spiking their drinks, taking underskirt pictures, taking pictures when somebody is drunk or using toilets, putting used condoms into peoples bags, posting pictures from gigs with sexual innuendos in description or comments among many other things.

Sexual abuse is never about what the victim wears, it is always about control, about dominating another person, taking away their confidence, shaming or ridiculing them. It’s very easy to re-victimize the victim by not believing, laughing, or not taking action if one is responsible for it. I have heard many stories when venues or security sided or even helped the perpetrators, allowed them to leave, tipped them off that police were called or destroyed evidence by removing spiked drinks. Victims are routinely persuaded not to press charges or even told it was their own fault something happened to them. This all paints a very bleak picture of the music industry, where young or non-binary/trans people are the most vulnerable.

What inspired BEX to write the song, was her own scary story that she revealed several days ago on her Instagram. Bex was stalked for more than two years, she even admitted that many boundaries were crossed and this had a massive impact on her well being. This is why I truly admire the new generation of performers – from grass root artists such as Bex or Delilah Bon, to established ones like Bambie Thug or Cassyette – they are not afraid to speak about what’s happening. It really takes a lot of bravery to speak about their own experiences and call out the toxic behaviour. It’s taking the power back from the abusers to the victims.

BEX by BEX

In her press release BEX says: “‘Sum Kinda Syko’ reflects my experience with harassment, unwanted attention, and how this person couldn’t accept boundaries. Syko is a reminder of how quickly things can go from harmless to threatening.”

“Sum Kinda Syco” takes no prisoners. BEX is unapologetic, sincere, rightfully angry and absolutely brilliant. The lyrics are written in an exaggerated manner, but this is what every abused person wants to say to those who torment them – stay away or we will use the force to stop you. Even if this is not always possible, the song gives hope to those who suffered abuse – it’s cathartic in a way and BEX is shouting on behalf of many people here.

Just three minutes but you will love the track – it has everything I love about the new nu-metal: fantastic vocals, slower passages, fast guitars, drumming heavy AF, and so much rhythm you can jump up and down until you drop. The message is at the center of the music – the lyric matters, the people matter, the artist is here to speak for those who are unable to tell their tale. The song may not be radio friendly, but it sends a message, and if BEX plays it live, it will be highly appreciated.

“Sum Kinda Syko” will be soon available in physical form with other BEX 2024 singles alongside carefully created merch bundles online. She also created a safe place on the internet for her community – The Scum Club.