XAMVOLO

When someone describe their music as being “a messy mind over raw, dark jazz grooves”, intrigue immediately kicks in and you really want to know what that sounds like. Even if you are a bit wary of what you’re letting yourself in for. Thankfully that mind and those grooves belong to XamVolo and there is no reason for caution, just excitement.

Originally from London and now based in Liverpool, the 22 year old newcomer is currently working on his debut Chirality EP with the producers behind Frank Ocean’s Channel Orange, hoovering up support and buzz from the likes of Huw Stephens and John Kennedy. More importantly, he is backing up the hype with his music.

His latest track, ‘Runner’s High‘, for example is five minutes of warped beats, jazztronica and soul. Stepping forward like the ringmaster from some darkly hypnotic carnival, the horns beckon and entice as the rhythm marches through these majestically unusual surroundings; playfully sinister, not threatening but with an undercurrent of mystery of danger.

The vocals are understated, allowing this grand arrangement to take centre stage, yet still captivating like a pied piper. It’s a voice and a song that we are happy to follow wherever it leads.

Words by Adam from Alphabet Bands

Tipped by Matt Baty from Amazing Radio