Nick Valensi of the Strokes, singer-songwriter Aziya, and producer Mr Hudson have unveiled their collaborative new single, “Scream Your Name,” released via the London-based artist collective and label SICK. The track blends thumping rhythms and distorted guitars to explore the complicated dynamics of an unhealthy relationship.
Studio Experimentation Drives New Release
- The Collaborators: The track brings together Nick Valensi, Aziya, and producer Mr Hudson in a studio session designed for pure musical exploration rather than a rigid professional agenda.
- The Sound: Built around swinging rhythms, deep synth bass, piano, and distorted guitar layers utilizing physical plate reverberation units.
- The Label: Released by SICK, a collaborative record label founded by Carré Callaway, Darian Zahedi, and Nick Hinman to foster grassroots artist networks without restrictive long-term contracts.
An Unplanned Studio Collaboration
Aziya entered the studio without a major professional statement in mind. Instead, the goal was simply to experiment with sounds alongside Valensi and Hudson. That creative freedom carried over into the recording booth, where the musicians layered Moog synthesizers and guitars through physical plate reverberation units that stood as tall as Aziya herself.
That open-ended process yielded a track driven by deep synth bass, piano, and Valensi’s guitar work. Aziya noted that she told her collaborators she wanted to explore sounds without feeling restricted by a huge professional agenda. That impromptu environment shaped the rhythmic, guitar-heavy foundation of the final recording.
Lyrical Contrast and Emotional Push-and-Pull
While the recording sessions were carefree, the subject matter of “Scream Your Name” tackles heavy emotional terrain. Aziya described the track as an ode to the push and pull of a relationship you absolutely shouldn’t be in. The lyrics intentionally carry a sense of irony rather than treating an unhealthy dynamic with uninterrupted seriousness.
As detailed in the artist statements, the song captures the exact moment before a final break or another round of conflict. It functions as the calm before the storm, getting louder and more intense until a definitive choice is made. That tension between a lighthearted studio process and a turbulent lyrical narrative forms the core contrast of the single.
Building a Grassroots Network Through SICK
“Scream Your Name” serves as the second single from SICK, following the September release of “PULS.zip,” which featured Lee Kiernan from IDLES and Tokyo-based artist RIS-707. The label aims to connect established and emerging artists across different genres and cities for collaborative singles, welcoming both independent and signed acts.
Label co-founder Carré Callaway explained to Flood Magazine that the initiative is designed to foster a community and help artists find mutual agency and support. Rather than relying on traditional industry structures, SICK provides a platform where musicians can take creative risks together without long-term commitments.
| Release | Collaborators | Label |
|---|---|---|
| “PULS.zip” (September) | Lee Kiernan & RIS-707 | SICK |
| “Scream Your Name” (October) | Nick Valensi, Aziya, Mr Hudson | SICK |
Callaway acknowledged the uncertainty of the current music business, noting that taking risks is essential for artists navigating the modern landscape. With “Scream Your Name,” SICK delivers its latest proof-of-concept for cross-genre collaboration.
