Xiu Xiu, Kindest Lines, Hedgehog September 14, 2011

ALL AGES

Xiu Xiu
Xiu Xiu is an experimental band originally from San Jose, California and currently based in Durham, NC and Brooklyn. The band is named after the main character of the 1998 Chinese film “Tian yu” (a.k.a. “Xiu Xiu: The Sent Down Girl”)

Xiu Xiu was first formed in 2000 and is the main project of singer-songwriter Jamie Stewart, who records with friends on his home computer. Stewart’s cousin, Caralee McElroy joined the band in 2003 and was the only other permanent member of the band until her departure in early 2009. Past members include Cory McCulloch, Lauren Andrews and Yvonne Chen. Some, including McCulloch, have played in previous bands with Stewart such as Ten in the Swear Jar and IBOPA.

In 2006 drummer/percussionist Ches Smith joined Stewart and McElroy in touring to support their 2006 album “The Air Force”.

In May 2007 Devin Hoff joined the band on bass.

Xiu Xiu’s full-length album, Women as Lovers, was released January 29 via Kill Rock Stars.

On May 15, 2009 Caralee McElroy left the band, for personal reasons. She’s now involved with the band Cold Cave.
Kill Rock Stars
Mp3s: http://www.myspace.com/xiuxiuforlife

Kindest Lines
New Orleans trio Kindest Lines draw from minimal synth, post-punk and a host of other genres to offer a self-titled debut overflowing with a rich, dreamy warmth and unique character that so many of their peers lack. Painstakingly mixed and produced, this release is by far the highest fidelity recording the label has to offer thus far. Released to coincide with the group’s debut NYC performance for a Wierd Records party.
Mp3s: http://www.myspace.com/kindestlines

Hedgehog
Chinese alternative rock band Hedgehog’s music is totally approachable and unique. Percussionist and vocalist Atom is a tiny girl who just barely peeps over the top of her drum kit but who bangs out explosive rhythms like a monster possessed. Bassist Box, the person responsible for keeping the band in line, punches out the tight bass lines that hold the songs together while seeming lost in oblivion. Guitarist and vocalist ZO slashes out huge waves of chords that seemed to fit perfectly within the songs yet at the same time tear them apart — while jumping, twirling, staggering and even falling over several times during his performances without letting up for the slightest pause.
Mp3s: http://www.myspace.com/hedgehogcn

Official Website: http://manicproductions.org/shows/2052