XOA, led by London based producer and musician Nick Tyson, is set to release debut album 'Way West' via Five Easy Pieces.
XOA means to look outwards; to draw inspiration from many sources. 'Way West' is alive with this: steeped in the rich analogue sonics of the past, the warmth of machines and influence from the sounds of London's fervent music scene.
Featuring a blend of contemporary electronic production and live instrumentation, 70s Afrobeat inspired drums and cosmic melodies are thrust into the present day with strong cues from house and techno.
Three vocalists contribute across the album, with Tyson choosing to work with singers he has a personal admiration and friendship with. Hollie Cook, known to many for her ethereal pop tinged reggae, delivers a sumptuous contribution on 'Heartland', adding a beautiful emotional dimension to the hornled track. Lulu Jones' vocals are treated more as a sample for the garage tinged 'Call On Me' and Ruby Wood, of Submotion Orchestra, has worked with Tyson over a number of projects and their shared love of 90s soul comes to the fore on the laid back grooves and sunkissed 'Only One Thing'. [info from label]