Lav's Music Corner

Review by Lavender: Xiu Xiu are a California-based experimental music outfit with more than two decades of critical acclaim under their belt. Since a 2016 covers album of the Twin Peaks soundtrack they've re-ignited critical praise for their music, highlighted by 2019's harrowing Girl With Basket Of Fruit . The last time we heard from the band was on last year's  Ignore Grief,  an album whose sonic darkness and expanse didn't resonate with all of their fans, even though I liked it quite a bit. Now in their hilariously titled new album 13' Frank Beltrame Italian Stiletto With Bison Horn Grip  we have a spiritual successor to 2017's Forget. It's a catchier and more accessible version of the band's defining sound, but one that still delivers their gritty production and chaotic arrangements.  I had a pretty strong feeling this album was going to be good based on the singles alone. First came "Common Loon", which I like a lot despite the fact that i