HXXS tap into the endless curiosity and crushing dread that comes with being a human in 2019.

In a world filled with chaos and wannabe pop stars battling for the next forgettable song that will sparkle and fade, there has long been a shortage of darkness in modern music. HXXS – aka Jeannie Colleene and Gavin Neves – do not care about radio play or the short-lived glory of a viral hit. The duo wants to move you and express themselves, preferably at the same time, and they’re showcasing their talent for achieving those goals on their new single “Learner.”

Life has changed significantly over the past four years. The politics of America has divided family and friends, which has made communication increasingly difficult for virtually everyone. People often find themselves walking on eggshells to avoid confrontation or arguing their point to not feel week. It’s an emotionally taxing time to be alive, and HXXS are exploring the numerous feelings of uncertainty that come with living in the modern age with their music.

On “Learner,” HXXS touch on the heart-racing curiosity and fear that comes with getting to know another person. Under synth and drums, there is a desire for connection that is palpable in every beat of the song. It’s the kind of song that makes you want to dance, even if only to shake off the concerns you have about the many unknowns that come with allowing yourself to be close to someone else.

HXXS’ new album, Year Of The Witch (out October 18), was born while the duo was crisscrossing the country in a van. Whenever inspiration struck, the group would record wherever they found themselves, be it in a parking lot, hotel room, or laundry mat. Being so closely tied to the changing landscape of the world in real-time, HXXS were able to tap into something deeply personal, yet undeniably universal. They found a sense of longing for understanding and rebirth that now runs throughout their music.

Then disaster struck. While traveling, HXXS were robbed, and among the many items stolen was the hard drive containing Year Of The Witch. The group, unwilling to be defeated, had to recreate the record from memory on a time crunch. That kind of pressure could break the average creative, but HXXS fought through and delivered something incredible in the process. You can discover the record for yourself when it hits stores October 18.