Where Arca’s critically acclaimed debut release Xen (2014) was introspective, Mutant is outwardly emboldened. Dedicated to and coloured by the important people in Arca ’s life, Mutant illustrates the continuing mutations catalysed by loved ones: friends, family, acquaintances. Arca morphs for them and because of them. Both releases are contortionist shape-shifters, but where Xen asked us to meet her in her world, Mutant comes out to meet us in the light. Mutant is suggestively agape, embracing multiple sensualities with refreshing softness. Jesse Kanda ’s organic cover art, luminous where Xen ’s was shrouded, is a reflection of this.

In the artist’s words: ‘ Mutant is about sensuality and impulsiveness as escape routes out of rigidity. Softness as a weapon when the mind attacks itself.’ Mutations in the records’ textures parallel the malleability of identity; tension is harmonised by openness and the inclusiveness of transformation. Pride is taken in deformity, innocence, distortion and vulnerability: traits often ostracised as undesirable. Themes that have animated Arca ’s work – tension, polarities, playfulness, eroticism, mutability – have been refracted into newer, more nuanced shades. Fluctuation, in-betweenness, intimacy and chaos are celebrated

A1 Alive
A2 Mutant
A3 Vanity
A4 Sinner
A5 Anger
B1 Sever
B2 Beacon
B3 Snakes
B4 Else
B5 Umbilical
C1 Hymn
C2 Front Load
C3 Gratitud
C4 En
C5 Siren Interlude
D1 Extent
D2 Envelopeped
D3 Faggot
D4 Soichiro
D5 Peonies