Xiu Xiu at Klub za zrkadlom: A Concert for Their New Album "13" Frank Beltrame Italian Stiletto with Bison Horn Grips"
Supporting act: Montreal musician Kee Avil
▶ XIU XIU
Founded in 2002 under the leadership of Jamie Stewart, Xiu Xiu has continually pushed the boundaries of musical expression. Their work is known for blending avant-garde pop with raw emotion and daring experimentation, often exploring themes like personal trauma, love, loss, and social engagement.
Over two decades, they have released 17 studio albums praised by major outlets like The New Yorker, The Wire, Rolling Stone, The Guardian, NME, and many others. Acclaimed albums include Fabulous Muscles (2004), Women as Lovers (2008), and Girl with Basket of Fruit (2019). Each work is unique, yet all share a deep emotional core and a fearless willingness to venture into uncharted sonic territories. The band has toured relentlessly around the globe, from remote locations like Kazakhstan and Lebanon to prestigious venues such as the Guggenheim Museum and the Centre Pompidou.
In fall 2024, Xiu Xiu released their latest album 13" Frank Beltrame Italian Stiletto with Bison Horn Grips, accompanied by the announcement of an extensive world tour, including a stop at Bratislava’s Klub za Zrkadlom.
Nine tracks worthy of reverence and reflection. Nine compositions sealing a pact with those who still find the time to listen to an album in its intended order – because an album is a message that cannot be absorbed in fragments. The album was mixed by John Congleton under the band’s directive to “go crazy” and, if in doubt, “choose iconoclasm.” And, if your ears are not deceiving you, that’s exactly what he did.
▶ KEE AVIL
Kee Avil is the musical project of Montreal-based producer and multi-instrumentalist Vicky Mettler, who uniquely fuses guitar, vocals, and electronic elements into avant-garde sound collages. Her music balances improvisation with meticulous composition, creating a dark, evocative atmosphere. Her debut album Crease (2022) received critical acclaim for its innovative blend of experimental soundscapes and intimate lyricism. Kee Avil offers a sonic experience that transcends genre boundaries and resonates with listeners who appreciate bold, boundary-pushing music.