Going Xen is the atmospheric and Avant Garde new album from Xen Wonder.

By Graeme Smith

Opening with the moody and introspective Insular, you get a sense right from the off that Going Xen is going to be an album that breaks the mould. There’s a confessional feel to the lyrics and their presentation really has you sitting up and taking notice.

Xen Wonder’s vocal delivery is hypnotic, employing repetition to great effect and providing an understated sense of emotion. It all adds up to an intense experience. You’ll feel every note. Insular gives way to Fault which brings with it a bass-led vibrancy. The General proves to be an early highlight through its fantastical ambience and the rich imagery of its lyrics.

Other highlights include hyperpop-infused outsider anthem and team up with damo, The Tourist, the visceral and sultry Down Under and the jazzy, groovy, spoken word Blu Face. Droning closes the album in ambient style with dreamy electronic layers mixing with snatches of vocals and captivating poetry.

I haven’t heard originality like Xen Wonder’s for awhile. He’s a true innovator, doing things his own way and creating magic as a result.

Going Xen is out now, available to buy as a digital album on Bandcamp. You can give it a listen below.