ekkstacy

After the success of his 2024 self-titled album, 23-year-old EKKSTACY left Los Angeles and moved back to Vancouver, seeking calm after a chaotic period. While touring Europe, he fell into a cycle of heavy partying, despite past trauma from drug use. “A lot of drugs and a lot of drinking—psychosis,” he said. Back in the U.S., a new relationship and burnout pushed him to change. He began writing Forever, his upcoming album, mostly sober—and in love. Departing from his previous post-punk influences, EKKSTACY embraced a rawer emo sound inspired by bands like Japandroids and Remo Drive. He also changed his creative process, writing vocals and guitar together instead of layering lyrics last. The result is his most personal, focused work yet. With no features or gimmicks, Forever showcases a matured artist entering his prime. “This is the best album I’ve ever made,” he said. “I feel deeper about this than anything else.”