Xfeverfewx — Trans Body Music

Trans Body Music is a two-track textured noise affair. And as its title suggests the tracks were created by the use of the artist's body, and in particular her thighs and breasts. Each track runs at spot on the ten-minute mark, with a blend of rubbing, buzzing, and lightly whistling to forking noise matter.

The CD/ digital release appeared on Pittsburgh’s Enforced Existence last year. With the sharpie written CDR coming presented in a monochrome sleeve, which is found in a plastic slip. Cover artwork wise we have a hazed grey, black and white picture of possible a pair of legs/ torso standing up- but it’s difficult to fully define. As of writing this review, there are a few physical copies left of the release- which can be purchased here 

Xfeverfewx is the noise project of Michigan-based Briar Anais. The project has been active since 2019- going by Discogs it has eight releases to its name, though I expect the true number is more like double/ triple that, as it’s released a fair few digital-only releases, which are not mentioned.

So, opening the release is “Bodypoem( Thighs)”. The track starts with a set and low cable buzz- this is fairly soon added to by a selection of rapid rubs and drags. These are urgent/ rapid, with the sound pallet sitting between baying mids, popping static buffets, and chalky hisses. For the most part, the track is both busy and decidedly ragged affair- though in its last few minutes we do get a selection of rather unnerving and uneasy whispers appearing- these are fairly soon replaced by a selection of more rapid rubs.

The other track here is “Bodypoem(Breasts)”. Here we have a buzzing, almost more seared digeridoo tone, going against more agitated and static ripped rubbing. This track feels a bit more taut and seared than the first track, with at times the agitated rubs becoming crudely hypnotic in their wrap ‘n’ ripping pile up. The buzzing & rub blend is well realized, with the whole thing having almost a roughshod tribal vibe to proceedings.

As far as I’m aware this is my first taster of Xfeverfewx work- and both tracks here have their worth, the concepts interesting enough too, and along the way you get some rather nicely entrancing tones/ textures appearing. So I’ll certainly be checking out more of Ms Anais work down the line.