Xiu Xiu's 'Eraserhead' Album and Tour
Xiu Xiu, the experimental music duo, is preparing to release a new album and embark on a tour, both centered around their acclaimed live interpretation of David Lynch’s iconic film, “Eraserhead.” This venture, titled “Eraserhead Xiu Xiu,” is slated for a July 10 release through Polyvinyl and continues the band's history of engaging with Lynch's work, following their previous, well-received “Twin Peaks” album and associated performances. The upcoming album features their unique rendition of “In Heaven,” a song originally composed by Peter Ivers with lyrics penned by Lynch himself, offering a fresh perspective on the film's haunting soundscape.
The genesis of this project lies in Xiu Xiu's ongoing live spectacle, which reimagines the sonic world of “Eraserhead.” Their approach draws heavily from Alan Splet and David Lynch’s original score and intricate sound design for the film, aiming to evoke the same unsettling and atmospheric qualities that define the cinematic masterpiece. Fans can anticipate a deeply immersive experience, as the band meticulously reconstructs and reinterprets the auditory elements that contribute to the film’s distinctive mood.
Following the album’s release, Xiu Xiu will hit the road this fall for a series of live dates. These performances will predominantly feature the “Eraserhead” set, allowing audiences to fully experience the band’s sonic exploration of the film. The tour promises to be a captivating journey into the surreal and industrial soundscapes that have become synonymous with “Eraserhead.”
In addition to the album and tour, a cinematic companion piece to “Eraserhead Xiu Xiu” is currently in the works. This supplementary film is expected to further enhance the project’s multi-sensory dimension, offering visual interpretations that complement Xiu Xiu’s musical narrative. This holistic approach underscores the band’s commitment to a comprehensive artistic exploration of Lynch’s film.
The tracklist for the upcoming album includes: “Viento,” “Sleep Synth,” “Tetra,” “Steampipe,” “Smashy Smashy,” “Ether,” and “In Heaven,” promising a diverse yet cohesive collection of tracks that embody the essence of “Eraserhead.” These titles hint at the album’s atmospheric and perhaps abstract nature, reflecting the film’s own enigmatic qualities. Prior to this release, Xiu Xiu also launched an album last year featuring covers of various artists such as Daniel Johnston, Glorilla, and Robyn, though this particular work was not made available on Spotify.
Upcoming performance dates include: June 21 in Hobart, Tasmania (Dark Mofo); October 2 and 3 in Los Angeles, CA (2220 Arts + Archives); October 1 in Vancouver, British Columbia (Vancouver International Film Festival); and October 8 in San Francisco, CA (Gray Area). These dates mark key opportunities for fans to witness the “Eraserhead” performance firsthand.
This new endeavor by Xiu Xiu represents a significant artistic undertaking, deepening their engagement with the avant-garde cinema of David Lynch. By transforming the auditory elements of “Eraserhead” into a distinct musical experience, Xiu Xiu continues to push the boundaries of experimental music, offering both long-time fans and new listeners a unique and compelling artistic journey.