LYLVC: The Cybersecurity Hacker Fronting a Techno-Metal Revolution
Alyse Zavala, the dynamic frontwoman of the band LYLVC (pronounced “lilac”), leads a unique double life. By day, she’s a cybersecurity expert, and by night, she commands the stage with a blend of rock, rap, and metal. Her journey, marked by overcoming adversity and a relentless pursuit of her passions, is as compelling as the music she creates.
From Hacking to Headlines
Zavala’s expertise extends to areas like penetration testing, DDoS attacks, and bug bounties, making her equally adept at navigating the digital world of cybersecurity and the creative realm of music. She currently serves as Executive Director of Adversarial Penetration at Options Clearing Corporation, a role that demands high-pressure problem-solving skills.
“I can handle extremely high-pressure situations,” she explained in an interview, “because I’m having to break into world markets…This is particularly high-stake stuff.” She emphasizes that her operate in cybersecurity helps her maintain perspective amidst the demands of touring and performing with bands like Atreyu, Biohazard, and Saliva.
A Musical Foundation Forged in Resilience
Zavala’s musical roots trace back to her childhood, where she composed and performed a cappella songs in church. However, her path wasn’t without hardship. From ages 10 to 15, she endured abuse from her stepfather, an experience that profoundly impacted her and ultimately fueled the raw emotion behind LYLVC’s music, particularly the song “Crawl Space.”
The lyrics to “Crawl Space” reflect this trauma: “Smile fake beaten I can’t evolve / Lie awake cheated another doll / Fist-fucked life took another toll / Wrist-bound face-first dragged across the asphalt / I guess I never listen / I don’t desire to listen / Oh my God Daddy take me to another prison.” Her stepfather eventually pled guilty to multiple felony charges related to the abuse.
LYLVC: A Fusion of Rock and Rap
LYLVC, which features Alyse Zavala on vocals and Oscar Romero on rap vocals, blends rock and hip-hop into a distinctive sound. The band also includes Cameron Gillette on keyboard/synth/rhythm guitar, Seth Morgan on lead guitar, and Lee Hutt on drums/percussion. They’ve built a reputation for energetic live shows, sharing stages with prominent acts and completing a sold-out international tour in the U.K. And Europe with Biohazard and Life of Agony.
Recent Projects and Partnerships
LYLVC recently signed with Judge & Jury Records, founded by Howard Benson and Neil Sanderson. Their single “Barely Human,” released in August 2024, explores a dystopian theme of survival and the loss of humanity. The song is accompanied by a music video directed by Jensen Noen. They previously recorded music with Producer Kane Churko, known for his work with bands like In This Moment and Five Finger Death Punch. Their first EP, “The Perfect Drug,” was recorded at Howard Benson’s West Valley Studios in January 2023.
LYLVC’s music can currently be heard on MTV Live every Saturday and in Planet Fitness and Six Flags amusement parks.