REVIEW: LASTELLE - Exist vol. ii

The Oxford-based post-hardcore band LASTELLE has once again captivated audiences with their latest EP, Exist vol. ii. Following the success of their 2021 EP Delicate, LASTELLE continues to impress with their ability to blend atmospheric melodies with raw, emotionally charged lyrics that resonate deeply with listeners. Known for their poignant exploration of mental health struggles, LASTELLE’s new EP is a testament to their growth as artists and their commitment to addressing important themes through their music.

The EP opens with the all-but title track Exist, which immediately draws listeners into the depths of the human experience. The powerful vocals of ADAM, MARK, and FREDDIE are a highlight, delivering a message that is both introspective and universal. The track captures the essence of simply going through life, existing in a world that often feels overwhelming and chaotic. It sets the tone for the EP, inviting listeners to reflect on their own journeys and the challenges they face.

Tired Eyes, one of the singles released prior to the EP, is a standout track that hits like a punch in the gut. The song is filled with spiralling emotion and lyrics that resonate with anyone who has ever felt the weight of exhaustion and despair. The intensity of the music, combined with the raw honesty of the lyrics, makes Tired Eyes a powerful and moving piece that lingers in the mind long after the track ends.

Bitter Roots opens with a cry for help in German, followed by a hard-hitting answer phone message that evokes a deep sense of empathy and understanding. As the song intensifies, it feels as though the listener is drowning in the moment, experiencing the overwhelming emotions that accompany a crisis. The track is a powerful exploration of vulnerability and the struggle to reach out for help, making it a poignant addition to the EP.

Bitter Seeds is another emotionally charged track that delves into the depths of heartbreak and the struggles of a breakup. The song is bound to pull on heartstrings, as it resonates with anyone who has experienced the pain of losing someone important. The combination of screams and a driving drumbeat creates a sense of urgency and intensity, while the standout lyric “this misery loves company” captures the universal feeling of isolation and despair that often accompanies heartbreak.

Rounding off the EP is The Silence Hurts the Most II, a ballad that explores the depths of a depressive episode and the feeling of being trapped in a cycle of despair. The track is a poignant reflection on the silence that often accompanies mental health struggles, highlighting the pain and isolation that can come with feeling so low. The emotional depth of the lyrics, combined with the haunting melody, makes The Silence Hurts the Most II a powerful and moving conclusion to the EP.

Exist vol. ii is an incredible EP that showcases LASTELLE’s ability to create music that is both emotionally resonant and musically compelling. The band’s exploration of mental health themes is both timely and important, offering listeners a sense of connection and understanding. With their latest release, LASTELLE has solidified their place in the post-hardcore scene and continues to push the boundaries of what is possible with their music.  

Score: 8/10

Exist vol. ii was released on September 12th 2025.

Words: Lisa York

Photos: LASTELLE