The cataclysmic sound of now: YHWH Nailgun’s “45 Pounds”

Graphic by Mateo Krygowski

by Mateo Krygowski

RISING IN AND CRASHING DOWN, THE DEVIL FINALLY SEES HIS FRACTURED REFLECTION. “YHWH!” HE CRIES. DARTING HIS EYES INTO THE NEAREST VOID, SHYING AWAY FROM HIS EXISTENCE, HE REVERTS TO NOTHING.  

The Brooklyn-based quartet YHWH Nailgun has entered 2025 with their cataclysmic debut, 45 Pounds. Shattering the rock genre and birthing a new, searing torment within. The twenty one-minute album asserts itself as one of the loudest pieces of music released this year, emphasizing the importance of what it means to be exceedingly angry and precise in equal measure–because–now is the time to do so. So it goes, now is the time to emit a powerful message, crystalline in presentation, though unapologetically mad and emotional in its aftermath. The devil has returned to remind the public of its devastation and brilliance: This is YHWH Nailgun. 

45 Pounds begins with the rabid track “Penetrator” which, in its first moments, takes the form of a piercing siren, disrupting any preexisting silence; penetrating the peace that resides immediately in and around the song itself, punching in tight, explosive bursts, delivered by drummer Sam Pickard. This disruption is a core aspect of the album, dominating its entire runtime.  However, before the introduction of these incredibly brash beats, we are greeted with a high-pitched siren that fully grows into a fierce organ, intersected by the raspy voice of the band's lead singer, Zack Borzone. His performance takes many shapes over the album's arc, though his voice is mainly reminiscent of the late Adam Yauch, a founding member of the hip-hop group, Beastie Boys. Even with this comparison, Zack takes on a younger and ultimately angrier persona, stretching out his disgruntled shouts with pride. 

The third track on the album, “Pain Fountain,” may be the most exhilarating example of  Borzone’s unique rhythm and animalistic shriek, alongside the compact thuds of Pickard’s drumming. This fervor includes the menacing chants of guitar and synth, provided by the rest of the group, Saguiv Rosenstock and Jack Tobias. Starting with a bass-heavy four-count, “Pain Fountain” dives straight into a rhythm that persists aggressively beyond any other track on the projecct. Borzone addresses his disgust with a muddied delivery, preparing for the climax of the song, simply exclaiming:“PAAIIINN/ FOUNTAIN PAAAIIINN/ FOUNTAIN PAAIIIINN/ FOUNTAIN!”

He extends his words and overall angst into the roots of the song, hugging the feverish groan that the band produces with pleasure. The four act as one, leading up to playful machine gun sounds that ties off the track with a whirlwind finish. 

To counteract this seemingly endless intensity, 45 Pounds eighth track, “Sickle Walk,” leans ever so slightly into a more timid atmosphere. Still, the intricate rhythm of the drums never subside. The entire project is driven by the percussion, allowing for continuous movement, undying in its approach. Borzone also steps back from his incessant cry, taking on a grumbled tone with a dry finish. Similar to a sore throat, the song naturally carries on and is sectioned by the domineering punches of drums. Brutal, exceedingly catchy, and most importantly, memorable. 

Every so often, bands who attempt to confine themselves to tonally brash and cluttered arrangements end up blending in broad statements within their lyrics, speaking on topical conversations that provide a sense of belonging amongst the noise. Yet, YHWH Nailgun takes a removed stance, producing a force that valiantly pushes past these redundancies. Alienating listeners in the most exciting manner possible, removing what is expected and replacing it with an all-consuming vigor. A one-of-a-kind force, constantly exhilarating. 

With their debut, YHWH Nailgun successfully avoids genre, similar to Death Grips’ process of redefining what music can and will sound like. This is the future of abrasive sounds and those alike. Beyond these qualities, the complete experience of 45 Pounds is, once again, like no other project out there. The meticulous construction and amount of effort that has been put into this album is evidently audible as YHWH Nailgun perfects their presentation with an understanding of their brilliant vision, paired with an unwavering confidence. 

This album will haunt for the rest of the year, it currently stands as a daunting behemoth, prepared to attack anyone who crosses its path. I only hope and pray it will age like a fine wine. For now, 45 Pounds is a ferociously audacious debut.