XO's "Spirit Looking Out": A Sonic Journey Through Love and Transition
Portland, Maine's own XO returns with their latest EP, Spirit Looking Out, a project that marks a significant step in the band's evolving sound. Released on August 23, 2024, this EP is more than just a collection of tracks—it's a reflection of the band's growth, both musically and personally, over the past decade. Comprised of five meticulously crafted songs, Spirit Looking Out showcases the unique creative synergy of twin brothers Jake and Jeff Turner.
The EP opens with four tracks penned by Jeff Turner—"Help," "Breathe," "Shine," and "Falling"—each one a testament to the band's signature blend of introspective lyrics and atmospheric melodies. These songs capture the essence of life's transitions, offering listeners a window into the emotional landscapes the band has navigated in recent years. The fifth track, "Love Again," written by Jake Turner, stands as a poignant exploration of renewal and the enduring power of love.
Recorded in the intimate confines of a shared studio in Long Beach, California, and finished at home in 2021, the EP bears the unmistakable mark of Jake Turner's deft touch in mixing and mastering. The production is a delicate balance between raw emotion and polished sound, a hallmark of XO's DIY ethos that has resonated with fans since their early days.
Musically, Spirit Looking Out weaves together the rich textures of shoegaze, the emotional depth of emo, the haunting minimalism of slowcore, and the dreamy landscapes of dream pop. The result is a sonic experience that is both immersive and deeply moving, drawing listeners into a world where every note and lyric feels intensely personal.
Having previously made their mark with bands like Say Anything, Parkside View, and Hot Rod Circuit, the Turner brothers bring a wealth of experience and a finely tuned artistic vision to XO. This EP, their 20th release under their own label Twin Waves, is a milestone that encapsulates their journey—one filled with both struggle and triumph, all beautifully rendered in the music.
Spirit Looking Out is not just an EP; it's an invitation. An invitation to step into the minds and hearts of two musicians who have poured their souls into every track, inviting listeners to feel, reflect, and perhaps even heal alongside them. As XO continues to carve out their niche in the indie music scene, this latest release solidifies their place as artists unafraid to delve into the complexities of the human experience, all while crafting a sound that's uniquely their own.
