Inimitable and dynamic duo Xylouris White will soon be making their way back to Australian stages, their new album Black Peak in tow. But before they kick off their run of shows, the pair have imparted their musical wisdom upon us in the form of a playlist of songs that have influenced them throughout their respective careers.
Comprised of Dirty Three drummer Jim White and one of Crete’s most prolific and eclectic artists, lute virtuoso George Xylouris, Xylouris White are a completely unique experience. The band were last in town in 2014 supporting then-current album Goats, and considering those in attendance are still talking about the run, the pair will be returning to a fanbase that’s grown over the months.
Black Peak was met with critical acclaim and praise from the fans when it dropped back in October. The album, which featured the cheekiest cameo from Bonnie ‘Prince’ Billy is sure to get a solid airing at the forthcoming shows.
So, we know now who Xylouris White are, but what makes them tick? Well, let’s take a peak under the hood.
George Xylouris on his musical selection:
“All of these songs, three in particular have accompanied me my whole life and they feel like they’re a part of me. Solo lyra of Psarandonis is my code for escaping all conventions
The song by Nathena with the whistle and singing reminds me of the smell of the earth when it first rains…’ They are the first tunes I learned.”
Jim White on his:
“I’ve been listening to the Alice Coltrane song for a while now, gets me every time, earlier this year I heard it on the radio in the car and sat in the car park at at Barkly Square shopping centre while it finished, it set of a new bout of returning to it. Other tracks are a mixture of songs that we return to- Mary Margaret O’hara is someone I listen to regularly since hearing her live at Meltdown in London in the 90’s, I return to her regularly and have had the privilege of playing with her .. always brings a bigger feeling to me”
Xylouris White Australian Tour Dates
Saturday, 17th December
Melbourne Recital Centre, Melbourne
Special guest Tiny Ruins (solo)
Tickets: Melbourne Recital Centre
Wednesday, 28th December – Thursday, 29th December
Woodford Folk Festival, Woodford
Tickets: Woodford Folk Festival
Friday, 30th December
The Factory Theatre, Sydney
Tickets on sale October 20th via factorytheatre.com.au
…Also supporting PJ Harvey
