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Xylos : Xylos

1000x Records

While it may cite disparate influences ranging from the effervescent pop confections of ABBA to the witchy art-prog of Kate Bush, the members of Brooklyn quintet Xylos have perfected a signature quiet-cool brand of electronic dream-pop. Xylos’ self-titled debut pleasantly meanders through different layers of ethereal soundscapes from the sentimental opener “Darling Dearest” that sways with buzzing synths and upbeat percussion to the Krautrock-influenced “X-Ray,” which features frontwoman Monika Heidemann’s seductively husky vocals juxtaposed with light-as-air, shimmering keyboards. “Blind Eye” finds this five-piece experimenting with crunchy dancehall-inspired beats and a clubby swagger that’s sure to win them points with hip bar dwellers everywhere. Packed with luxurious harmonies and catchy riffs, Xylos manages to captivate the listener with a hazy pop that ups the cool quotient.