Brooklyn DJ Kilbourne: Faster, Harder, Ecstatic Violence

Brooklyn-based DJ and musician Kilbourne has released her new album, "If Not to Give a Fantasy." The work delivers a ferocious brand of industrial hardcore, driven by a philosophy of "louder, faster, harder." Kilbourne elevates the genre by incorporating elements such as marimba, bird calls, and industrial trills, crafting a unique electronic orchestra.

Kilbourne describes her music as a reflection and redirection of experiences that feel brutal or relentless. While starting in club music, she now focuses on industrial hardcore with a minimal edge. Her sound, characterized by pummeling beats and operatic intensity, has gained traction in underground scenes.

"If Not to Give a Fantasy" aims to capture the seductive essence of hardcore music, providing an escape into a hallucinatory realm. Kilbourne is a regular at events like Boiler Room and hosts her own hardcore night, Hammerhead, which also serves as her independent label.

The album explores new riffs on her minimalistic formula, balancing a fierce sound with polished production. Tracks like "Loon Call" sample the Minnesota state bird, creating a striking contrast with the gabber beat, while "Deer Stomps Its Hooves in Warning" features warm synths and a marimba-influenced melody before intensifying.