Avant-Garde Pioneers: xiu Xiu returns

The American experimental rock band Xiu Xiu is slated to perform at Wagon Hall on Easter, April 20th. This performance marks their return to the venue, this time showcasing their latest studio album. Over the past two decades, Xiu Xiu has solidified its position as a highly influential force in modern avant-garde and experimental music. Their distinctive sound and musical versatility have garnered acclaim from both listeners and critics, earning them recognition in esteemed publications such as The New Yorker, The Wire, Rolling Stone, and The Guardian.

Global Reach, Unique performances

Xiu Xiu’s dedication to their craft has taken them across the globe, performing in diverse locations and venues.

The Xiu Xiu has traveled tirelessly and non -quenching the world, performing in countries such as Kazakhstan and Lebanon, and also in places such as the Guggenheim Museum in Spain and the Pompidou Center in France.
concert Organizers

This extensive touring history underscores their commitment to sharing their unique sound with audiences worldwide. Their willingness to perform in both conventional and unconventional settings highlights their experimental ethos.

“13 Frank Beltrame Italian Stiletto with Bison Horn Grips”: A New Sonic Landscape

Released in late September of last year under the Polyvinyl label, Xiu Xiu’s eighteenth studio album, “13 Frank Beltrame Italian Stiletto with Bison Horn Grips,” represents a important departure from their previous work. The album features contributions from band members Angela Seo, David Kendrick, and Jamie Stewart, and was mixed by John Congleton, a producer known for his work with artists such as Chelsea Wolfe, Swans, and lana Del rey.Congleton’s involvement suggests a refined sonic texture, building upon Xiu Xiu’s already complex sound.

Berlin Influence and “Common Loon”

This latest album is heavily influenced by new experimental explorations and the band members’ recent relocation from Los Angeles to Berlin. The move to Berlin, a city renowned for its vibrant experimental music scene, appears to have infused the album with fresh perspectives and sonic textures.The album’s lead single, “Common Loon,” exemplifies this shift, accompanied by a provocative video created by performance artist Alice McDeida.

Opening Act: Riga’s Grab

Adding to the experimental atmosphere of the evening, the Riga-based experimental rock band Grab will be performing as special guests. Grab is known for their blend of musical harmony and structural chaos. Their sound incorporates traditional rock instrumentation—drums,guitar,bass,and vocals—alongside electronic tools.The band integrates alternative rock elements with artistic techniques such as chaotic micropolifony, granular synthesis, and Harsh noise. The band features Kārlis Tone (guitar, vocals, synthesizer), artis Avotiņš (drums), Janis Emil Katinskis (guitar, synthesizer), and Sarma Gabrena (bass, bass synthesizer, vocals).