Putting her all into her debut EP, XTIE totally brings it for “APOLLO-13”, fully showcasing her versatility, songwriting skills, and vocal ability. It’s impossible to deny the star that XTIE clearly is. This acts as the follow-up to her previous single “new classic”.
XTIE, an independent artist hailing from Hong Kong, is a multi-talented force in the music industry. With a unique blend of self-produced, self-written, and self-performed songs, XTIE has garnered widespread recognition. Her remarkable talent has propelled her singles to reach the top spot on radio stations in Hong Kong and Taiwan. XTIE’s recent performances at the Ear Up Music Festival 2023 and a sold-out headline concert in Hong Kong have solidified her status as a rising star. She made a remarkable overseas appearance in the UK, captivating audiences at notable music festivals including FOCUS Wales and The Great Escape. With her warm jazz-infused vocals and a penchant for creating shimmering productions, XTIE has been praised by MTV Asia for her exceptional artistry. Earmilk has also recognized her as a promising talent with her ability to transport listeners with her music. In addition to her own releases, XTIE has made significant production contributions to renowned acts and TV shows in Hong Kong, displaying her versatility and skill. Currently, she is actively involved in writing and producing for the A-Pop/K-pop markets. XTIE’s music, often described as “cosmic pop”, intricately weaves together ethereal beats and candid narratives about the universe, showcasing her captivating artistry and unique perspective.
The focus track, “#FF”, stands for final fantasy and is an Anthem of Independence for those who need it. XTIE explains, “It’s about realizing that your love to yourself is more important than relying on other people’s love. I don’t need to romanticize this toxic situation, I just need to walk away and celebrate my independence and self love.”
Stream “APOLLO-13” by XTIE on Spotify here:
The EP starts off with “Flower Town”, a gentle relaxing dream-pop track that fully introduces XTIE to her listeners and showcases her beautiful vocals. The chilled synth-pop backing track is rhythmic and addicting, setting the entire tone of the EP. “Spaceship” follows next, which is an upbeat dreamy track that delves into XTIE’s emotional vocals spun up into a positive beat. Taking back control after the end of a breakup, “Spaceship” really sees XTIE unleash her heart and turn something heartbreaking into an optimistic anthem. “Virgo” is next, which sees her pour all her feelings into this dreamscape song, as we navigate a space-like tone surrounded by powerful lyrics and a huge drop that heightens her wishes of being in an honest relationship.
“Skin” is the next track on the “APOLLO-13” EP, which sees XTIE delve into Self-empowerment lyrics and how she wants to look after herself and learn to love herself whilst being single. Her honesty runs through the track as a mellow backing beat allows her dream vocals to shine. The focus track is next, titled “#FF”, and it’s a full upbeat dream-pop experience that has one addictive beat that is mixed around XTIE claiming that all her feelings were imaginary and not real – something we can attest to and something many listeners will resonate with. Towards the end of the song, the track spins into a full techno-synth rhythm that adds an ending strength vibe to the track – what a way to end this song!
Track six is “Field of Gold” and is sung in Cantonese with a couple of lyrics in English. The track is an ode to XTIE’s hometown of Hong Kong with her lyrics delving into being thankful for what you currently have in life and not chasing something that isn’t meant for you. It’s fleshed out with an addictive pop backing beat that flows seamlessly around her gorgeous Cantonese lyrics and her beautiful vocals. She has dedicated this track as a “thank you” to her supporters throughout the years, and you can really feel that emotional integrity flowing out from the track. Track number six is a fully impactful track that leaves the listeners wanting more. The “APOLLO-13” EP concludes with the track “Cloud 9” which is a collaboration with Kepatime. The track starts off as a dream-pop ballad before the rhythmic ethereal chorus kicks in which adds to the lyrical content of feeling like you’re in love and you’re on cloud nine. An awesome techno-synth drop is added post-chorus and ultimately defines the song, easily making this the perfect track to end the EP on.
“APOLLO-13”, by XTIE, is available to download and stream, right now, across all platforms.
Let us know what you make of “APOLLO-13” by XTIE on Twitter @CelebMix.
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