I meant to post this yesterday. But this nasal cold, the one that’s plagued me for the last week, took me down for the day. So I gave myself some time off, had a warm candle-lit detox bath, some deeply relaxing meditation, and 9 hours of sleep. I think I’m feeling better now. And on that note …
Clan of Xymox … I’m willing to bet most will have no idea who these guys are … unless you were, or still are, really into ’80s alternative music. Xymox, as they’re sometimes abbreviated, are a Dutch band formed in ’81, who had a healthy run on the groundbreaking 4AD Records label, back in the day.
Their atmospheric music exudes a balanced blend of moody guitars, layered synths, and driving percussion, typically with the aid of drum machines. In the ’80s, Xymox fell comfortably in the alternative new wave and gothic rock category. These days, labels have evolved, and they’re considered coldwave or darkwave … take your pick.
Nearly four decades later, Xymox still craft music and tour extensively, marked by a stop at the Echoplex last weekend. The sole remaining original member is frontman Ronny Moorings. But that hasn’t altered the band’s identity, so much that their signature sound is unrecognizable. If anything, they’ve experienced a natural evolution, broadening their sound and filling the gaps with the aid of contemporary technology, as well as new perspectives.
Below is a collection of some of their early classics performed at the Echoplex on Sunday, 11.04.18. This material still stands strong, despite the distance of time. And it’s totally worth rediscovering … or discovering for the first time. Enjoy!
Clan of Xymox perform “Stranger” at the Echoplex on 11.04.18.
Clan of Xymox perform “Muscoviet Musquito” at the Echoplex on 11.04.18.
Clan of Xymox perform “A Day” at the Echoplex on 11.04.18.
Clan of Xymox perform “Louise” at the Echoplex on 11.04.18.
Clan of Xymox perform “Obsession” at the Echoplex on 11.04.18.