Xiu Xiu

Xiu Xiu: The Sent Down Girl.

Xiu Xiu (pronounced "shoo-shoo") is an experimental indie band originally from and currently based in San José, California, with time often spent in Seattle, Washington. The band is the sonic brainchild of singer-songwriter Jamie Stewart, who tours and records with his one and only current bandmate, and cousin, Caralee McElroy? (Xiu Xiu are also, on occasion, joined by Cory McCulloch?). Past members include Lauren Andrews and Yvonne Chen. Some, including McCulloch?, have played in previous bands with Stewart such as Ten in the Swear Jar and IBOPA. The band's name is taken from the 1998 Chinese film, Xiu Xiu: The Sent Down Girl.

Xiu Xiu's music draws heavily from several disparate genres including punk, noise rock, ambient noise, and folk. The majority of lyrics deal with morose topics such as suicide, AIDS, war, and taboo experiences. Musically, Xiu Xiu will often blend cacophonous percussion with lush hooks ...