Xiu Xiu | Artist

Xiu Xiu is an American experimental noise-rock band formed 2002 in San Jose, California, by singer-songwriter Jamie Stewart. The starting lineup comprised Stewart (vocals, guitar, synthesizer, programming, multi-instrumentalist), Cory McCulloch (multi-instrumentalist), Yvonne Chen (keyboards) and Lauren Andrews (keyboards), but underwent constant changes and now consists of Stewart, Angela Seo (synthesizer, keyboards, percussion), Thor Harris (percussion) and Chris Pravdica (bass). The band's sound is characterized by its use of indigenous instruments and programmed drums in place of traditional rock instruments: harmonium, mandolin, brass bells, gongs, keyboards. Critics have variously described the music as "an emotional experience", "Unpredictable and uncompromising" and "a burning passion and beauty". Stewart told Pitchfork that Xiu Xiu songs are based around five topics: family, politics, sex, love and lovelessness, suicide, and how they are connected. In terms of the band's sound, Stewart states that the group is equally influenced by Nina Simone and Krzysztof Penderecki, by The Birthday Party and Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark (OMD). A prolific recording band, to-date Xiu Xiu has released over 30 studio plus several live albums and numerous EPs and singles. Standout albums include Knife Play (2002), A Promise (2003), Fabulous Muscles (2004), The Air Force (2006), Plays the Music of Twin Peaks (2016), Forget (2017), Girl With the Basket of Fruit (2019), and 13" Frank Beltrame Italian Stiletto With Bison Horn Grips (2024). The band's name comes from the film Chinese drama film Xiu Xiu: The Sent Down Girl, directed by Joan Chen, which influenced the sound of their music, according to Stewart. The word "Xiu" is a Chinese name meaning "elegant and beautiful."

Artist Website: xiuxiu.org

Featured Albums: Xiu Xiu

Related Artists: Jamie Stewart