Xelli Island - “The End Of Us”
Xelli Island’s latest release, “The End Of Us,” is a slow pulsing alt/dream pop track that captures the essence of heartbreak and the subsequent freedom that comes with it.
The song opens with a pulsating bass synth and warm, melodic keys that roll across the arrangement, creating a warm and dreamy atmosphere. As the song progresses, more unusual synths are added until the main drum rhythm kicks in, giving the song a nice groove.
The guitar work on the track is minimal, but the muted riffs add to the song’s feel perfectly. The vocals on the track are gentle, and the reverb adds a nice depth and dreamy vibe to the song. At times, the vocal tones remind me of Grimes, of whom I am a massive fan.
Xelli Island’s lyrics explore the humbling pain of heartbreak and the liberation that comes from letting go of a relationship once it is over. The song was written during the pandemic’s immediate aftermath, after a break-up that left Xelli Island feeling hopeless. However, during a two-year collaboration with producer Jon Zott, the song’s message transformed into a reminder that time is the ultimate healer.
Overall, “The End Of Us” is a well-crafted alt-pop song with some great synth tones and a nice drum groove. I am a fan.