Avant-rock experimentalist duo turned into quintet Xiu Xiu are releasing their ninth full-length album entitled Always next week.
The San Jose, California outfit headed by Jamie Stewart has just offered a previewing of ‘Beauty Towne’, a new track off the upcoming album and it comes with a visual accompaniment.

According to the press release, “at its core, Always symbolizes the mutual camaraderie with and deep dedication to each person who has internalized Xiu Xiu’s work, tattooed its name on their skin or soul, and throughout the past ten years made the band a part of their lives.
The origin of these intense, everlasting bonds is Stewart. His fearless lyrics have given voice to life’s most untouchable and taboo subjects, while his distinctively committed but hushed vocals crystallize and medicate their unsettling impact.
Always’ most arresting moments lie in its sonic innovation — transforming avant pop elements from an undertone into a bright black focal point while adding new influences such as choral music, kraut rock and animal field recordings.”

Always was produced by Deerhoof’s Greg Saunier and it drops on February 28th in the UK and rest of Europe via Bella Union and on March 6th in the rest of the world via PolyVinyl.

Watch below the black and white animated video for ‘Beauty Towne’, directed by Jean Y Kim.