It’s a fact we’re more familiar with the chaos of mosh pits and the raw energy of HCMC, but this past Friday we experienced something quite different – a night at Yoko. A surprising detour—a mostly seated, candlelit affair that felt more like a heartfelt confession than a traditional rock gig. This was a slow-burning emotional ride through sound, memory, and vulnerability. And at the heart of it was XOI, promoting their ambitious new double album.
Opening the night was singer-songwriter NAVY, whose gentle voice and delicate guitar work wrapped the room in stillness. Her set, filled with unfiltered emotion and sincere delivery, perfectly captured the tone of the evening—a kind of heart-opening that set the stage beautifully for what was to come.
Next up was Luis Zapiola, a familiar name to local indie rock fans. Known from his work with projects like Coastal Connection and Anesthetic Youth, Zapiola stepped into a more personal light this time around. His mix of dreamy guitar tones, crisp rhythms, and rich vocal harmonies brought an air of nostalgic warmth to the evening. A true reminder of his versatility.
Finally, XOI took the stage and immediately shifted the night into a higher gear. As the first full-band act of the evening, they didn’t hold back. They tore through a dynamic set, pulling from both halves of their newly released double album. From distorted riffs to stripped-down ballads, from family reflections to darker corners of fear and humility, it was a performance that felt both grand and deeply personal. The seated crowd quickly found themselves standing, nodding, swaying, and hanging onto every word.
XOI’s album release was one of growth, gratitude, and honest storytelling. And if you missed this one, don’t worry—the band is playing another promo show next weekend at Mooney’s. Expect warmth, weight, and a damn good time.
Big congratulations to XOI on the album—keep the fire burning.
