Seven years after their last full length album, sonic enchantresses ŽEN are back with a new album 'Ciklus', which was released today, Friday, September 13th 2024 for Moonlee Records from Slovenija and Vox Project from France. Album is released as digital, but also the 12“ vinyl and CD are coming soon as well (PRE-ORDER NOW).

ŽEN - Ciklus - stream/download

ŽEN established themselves as one of the key figures on the regional independent scene of the 21st century. Since 2010, they have been crafting their delicate sonic expression by blending elements of post-rock, shoegaze, prog indie rock, and neo-psychedelia. ŽEN are passionate ambassadors of the DIY ethic, remaining active on the European live music circuit for nearly 15 years. Since the early days, they have been in full control of their booking schedule as well as the design and production of their merch. They also built and equipped their own studio, where they independently recorded their latest album.

Two years ago, Eva Badanjak (guitar, keyboards, vocals) and Sara Ercegović (drums, synths, vocals) were joined by Jelena Božić (bass guitar, vocals), who replaced Ivona Ivković. The new lineup naturally brought a fresh dynamic to the rhythm section and the construction of tight grooves. Their fourth album, 'Ciklus', marks an important new chapter in their discography. Its title symbolizes the end of one chapter and the beginning of a new one, while also referencing the female menstrual cycle, which represents the cyclical nature of life.

On 'Ciklus' (Moonlee Records, Vox Project), their music remains recognizable for its atmospheric, dreamy and ethereal character. Rooted in the melancholy guitar-driven sound of the 90s and 00s, the expression seamlessly absorbs the influences of contemporary dream pop and indie rock, creating soothingly immersive soundscapes. The new album is built on tight vocal harmonies, repetitive and echoey tones, rich guitar textures, prominent bass lines, creative drumming sequences, and skillfully incorporated synth lines that enhance the overall atmosphere. ŽEN once again demonstrate their exceptional sense of dynamics, delivering bold and striking vocals, powerful walls of sound, and riffs that pierce through the speakers.

ŽEN recorded the album in their own Zagreb studio Tralala, with Eva Badanjak at the helm of production. The mixing was done by their long-time collaborator Saša Rajković Zarkoff, while the mastering was done by Dutch music producer Martijn Tyrell. The album cover was designed by illustrator Klasja Habjan. Through such collaborations, ŽEN want to promote the work of visual artists they particularly admire, a practice they first introduced on their previous album Sunčani ljudi (2017).

As a band, ŽEN are now in a creative phase where there's no room for compromises. They take pride in their position as a pioneering lesbian band, their perseverance and principles. With this album, they solidify their position on the scene - ordinary lesbians who create extraordinary music.

ŽEN tour dates:
12.10.2024 @ Gallneukirchen, Altes Hallenbad - Klangfestival (AT)
26.10.2024 @ Zagreb, Attack (HR)
08.11.2024 @ Ljubljana, Gala Hala (SI)