Currently based between Dublin, London, and Bristol, feminist post-punks M(h)aol (pronounced “male”) have today shared their new single Gender Studies, a response to how gender changes throughout our lifetime, and how some people wish to force the gender binary.

The new single is the title track from debut EP ‘Gender Studies’ which they also announce today, for release on 29th October digitally, and then a 12” vinyl on 14th January via indie label TULLE.

On the EP, lead vocalist Róisín Nic Ghearailt says, “Gender studies weaves past and present in an exploration of how the construct of gender shapes our lives. From feeling like you’re not performing your gender right to the way it shapes how we move through the physical, sexual and romantic sphere it marries urgent lyrics with a threatening yet (blank) sound.”

Earlier this year they released the single Asking For It which aimed to dismantle the external and internal narratives that perpetuate the behaviours behind gender-based violence and victim-blaming. It was released early, prompted by the murder of Sarah Everard, with all profits donated to Women’s Aid Ireland.

Gender Studies’ film noir style music video uses imagery to suggest the constraints of gender roles and expectations, in contrast with the internal frustration and anger of the song. The faceless figures act as a frame for understanding and recognising the power of the individual’s voice and action in continuing to resist systems of oppression.

M(h)aol will be playing a small number of shows in the UK this November, with tickets on sale now here.

1st November – Rough Trade, Bristol
2nd November – The Hug And Pint, Glasgow
3rd November – The Talleyrand, Manchester
4th November – The Shacklewell Arms, London