Melbourne-based artist JXCKY has released a compelling new EP titled A Body for an Eye, showcasing a diverse range of sounds and exploring serious themes such as mental health and suicide ideation. The EP features the standout track “Everything Everywhere All At Once,” which draws inspiration from the acclaimed 2022 film of the same name. Through this song, JXCKY aims to raise awareness about mental health struggles and encourage open discussions around these vital issues.
In a recent statement, JXCKY explained how his personal experiences shaped the song’s message. “As a queer Asian, I resonated deeply with the film and it directly inspired the writing of the song and the video treatment,” he said. “Like the film, I wanted to use the concept of the multiverse to highlight my decline in mental health—no matter where I was or who I was with. I hope the song and video contribute to the conversation around suicide awareness and remind others that they aren’t alone in their struggle.”
The eight-track EP follows a period of reflection for JXCKY after the release of his debut album, Thriving in Perpetual Darkness, in mid-2024. After a steady stream of singles over five years, he took time away to recharge before returning with a new message. His visuals often display a fierce persona, characterized by leather and chains, but during a recent video call, he projected an endearing charm, expressing relief and renewed energy from the EP’s launch.
“A lot of people asked me how it felt, and I’d say for this one, it’s very much like a great relief has been lifted off me,” he shared. JXCKY believes that the creative process begins well before recording; it requires living life and gathering experiences. “I feel as a songwriter, that’s always the case. I need to live a little for me to be able to produce a body of work. Otherwise, it just won’t come naturally if it’s forced.”
In contrast to the typical music industry approach, where multiple songs are often churned out in rapid succession, JXCKY prefers a more personal and intentional method. “I’ve always been doing it gradually, where I have the song titles and a specific vision for each song, and it’s very specific to my life,” he explained. For “Everything Everywhere All At Once,” he aimed for transparency in both lyrics and visuals. “I didn’t want to shy away from that… I just wanted to shine a light on it. So other people who are going through the same thing can see this is a local artist who’s unafraid to speak and be brutally honest,” he added.
The music video, which appears complex, was filmed in a single day, a marathon shoot that lasted around 12 hours. JXCKY emphasized the importance of being bold as a queer artist, reflecting on the lack of representation during his teenage years. “When I was finishing high school in 2016, everyone was starting to be comfortable with queer artists, but I was still bullied in school. Now there’s so much representation—which I love,” he remarked.
As he continues to receive messages from young fans appreciating his music and reassurance about gender and sexuality, JXCKY feels motivated to keep pushing boundaries. He described the EP cover, which features him shirtless and adorned with chains, as a significant step outside his comfort zone. “You know, I’m not used to doing all that but I try to push myself,” he stated.
Despite his growing confidence, JXCKY still grapples with insecurities about his identity within the queer scene. “I still have thoughts in my head like, ‘Oh my gosh, am I dressed too gay?’ I still think about that stuff,” he confided.
As he reflects on the journey ahead, JXCKY expresses a desire to explore new sounds in his future work, but emphasizes the need for personal experiences to inform his writing. “I need some time to live life a little. I love writing, and I want to write more about my life and other aspects that aren’t so tainted and aggressive in sound,” he concluded.
Fans can now experience JXCKY’s A Body for an Eye EP, which not only showcases his artistic evolution but also serves as a beacon of support for those grappling with mental health challenges.
For those in need of support, resources are available from organizations such as QLife (1800 184 527) and Lifeline (13 11 14), offering counseling and referral services for LGBTQIA+ individuals.
