Xiu Xiu Get it 'Right' with 'F.T.W.'

Veteran art-rockers Xiu Xiu, hailed as one of the brightest stars amidst the Kill Rock Stars roster, retain their title with "F.T.W.," a harrowing mini-drama recited in a creative mix of strumming acoustics, plucking interludes, floating keys, and frontman Jamie Stewart's breathy, gloomy narratives. "There is no right / There is no wrong / In why we live / There is only wrong," Stewart bleakly preaches in a ballad-like tone over a forceful strum lined by soft strings and a tapping drum beat. "To force a hammer and a nail / through its soul… a car has killed you / and your corpse has de-discouraged us," Stewart continues, confessing in a dreary whisper under a shower of glimmering riffs. The tune, chiefly a one man show, though Stewart's latest lineup -- cousin Caralee McElroy, experimental percussionist Ches Smith, and bassist Devin Hoff -- all add indispensable sonic accessories, proves the clout of brainchild Stewart's eclectic, steadfast presence, narrative, and respect as a true musical artist. Women As Lovers arrives to store shelves Jan. 29 via Kill Rock Stars. 

Now Hear This:
Xiu Xiu - "F.T.W." DOWNLOAD MP3

On the Web:
Xiu Xiu at MySpace
xiuxiu.org

Talk: Do you think Xiu Xiu got it "right" with "F.T.W."?