The all-female Yemenite-Israeli group A-WA blasted onto the world stage in 2016 with their single "Habib Galbi"—"Love of My Heart"—which layered the haunting vocal harmonies of a traditional Yemeni love song over synthesized riffs and hip-hop beats. This hypnotic banger and its accompanying surrealist video immediately went viral across the Arab world, and it became the first-ever song in Arabic to top the Israeli pop charts. Now, the three sisters behind A-WA have released their second full studio album, Bayti fi Rasi. Just like "Habib Galbi," it's a mix between traditional music and cutting-edge pop, big and playful and always danceable.
Patrice Bart-Williams was born in Germany to a Sierra Leonean-Germany family. His most recent album, Life's Blood, demonstrates Patrice's cross-cultural upbringing—reggae rhythms carry his politically-laced lyrics in English. This is a lively and up-beat song with powerful lyrics.
Rosalía is a phenomenon across Spanish-speaking countries, and she's quickly becoming a sensation in the rest of the world. Her music is a refreshing, modern twist on flamenco rhythms, and her voice is stunning, hypnotizing. Some call her the Rihanna of Flamenco... Pff. She may be better.
Born and raised in Cholula, Puebla, a small town a couple of hours outside of Mexico City that sits in the shadow of a powerful (but dormant) volcano, Josean Log is a singer-songwriter with the sweetest, most charming ukulele and percussion based music. He infuses Latin rhythms with shimmering, thoughtful lyrics. Alguien Como Tú is remarkably original—Josean sings that if he can't be the person he loves, then he needs to find someone like them... exactly like them. His whole discography is a pleasure to listen to, so go forth and explore!
Tired of hearing the same Top 40 songs at every party? Want to try something new for this weekend’s get-together? Here are some recommendations from the Xeno team based on their anniversary party playlist!
"Esteman" is a Colombian singer and songwriter from Bogota. Known for his catchy rhythms, playful lyrics, and vast musical influences, his performance at Estereo Picnic this year was well attended. "Solo" is a danceable blend of carribbean beats about the joys of being alone! (Fun fact: "este man" is typically used in Colombian slang to say "this man" - Dominique spent a couple of days hearing Esteman's name unable to understand that this was, in fact, his name and not a monicker by series of forgetful friends)
Dominique's latest musical obsession (can you tell she gets these often?) is Parcels, an Australian band now living in Berlin creating nostalgic, soothing, but ultimately boogie-worthy music. Withorwithout is a song on their latest eponymous album. The band's sleek but goofy vintage aesthetic is quite charming, too. (Though the video is mildly terrifying)
Turkish rock potentate Gaye Su Akyol’s latest album is titled İstikrarlı Hayal Hakikattir, “Consistent Fantasy Is Reality.” The title track veers between Akyol’s silky, sharpshooting voice and a doomy chorus of male backup singers, all over a rich rock and roll backdrop. But Akyol’s devotion to her country’s music, with runs up and down the scale, mesmerizing repetition, and the jangling of ouds, give these songs sonic breadth and historical depth. The result is a uniquely sharp album, thick with dissenting attitude in the best rock and roll tradition.
