EXUM Shares Tranquil Single + Video “Bend Down” New Album hole Out October 25
Antone Exum Jr. transitioned from a successful six-year NFL career with the San Francisco 49ers and Minnesota Vikings to music after a near-death experience in 2020 sparked a profound personal transformation. Embracing his artistic ambitions under the stage name EXUM, he debuted with the acclaimed album *Xardinal Coffee* in 2021, which garnered praise from major outlets like *The Guardian* and *The Athletic*. Following this success, he released two more albums, *Tickle Pink Hotel* (2022) and *27 Planets* (2023), showcasing an eclectic sound that transcends genres, moving from rap and hip-hop to a surreal and experimental style.
EXUM has made a significant impact in the music scene, touring with acts like Alex G and Dehd, while his tracks have been featured on curated playlists by Spotify, Apple, and Tidal. Beyond music, he has also ventured into modeling for Harry Styles’ beauty line, Pleasing, and works in various artistic mediums, including screenplay writing and directing. As a multi-disciplinary artist, EXUM continues to redefine himself and explore the boundaries of creativity, offering listeners a unique and ever-evolving sonic experience that reflects his journey of reinvention.
It was an attempt that I deemed believable enough, and that took the attention off of me. To me, it ended up as an activity, one that’s exercising something you can’t see. I like to capture something pure. Bring it into my experience and sit with a replica attempt of God’s work.” -EXUM (On Upcoming Album Hole)
Richmond’s genre-defiant musician EXUM (Antone Exum Jr.) has released his serene new single and video “Bend Down,” a preview of his upcoming album *hole*, set to drop on October 25. This track showcases a shift towards a lo-fi, folk-inspired sound, featuring whispery, Elliott Smith-esque vocals paired with crisp acoustic guitar. As the song unfolds, it builds momentum with a minimal drum beat and a wistful harmonica, culminating in layered vocals that repeat the incantation-like phrase, “Bend down to the home grown folk,” inviting listeners to engage with its emotional depth.
EXUM’s musical journey has seen him evolve from rap and hip-hop to a surreal, eclectic sound. He describes *hole* as an effort to explore intangible aspects of life, aiming to capture something pure and reflect it in his work as a replica of divine creation. Mastered by Heba Kadry, known for her work with artists like Björk and Japanese Breakfast, the album promises a polished sonic experience. Collaborating with photographers and videographers Ryley Paskal and Bing Cao, EXUM’s visual presentation enhances the emotional resonance of his music. By leaving the interpretation of *hole* open to listeners, he fosters a unique connection between his art and the personal experiences of his audience.
Make sure you check out “Bend Down” on YouTube below and on your favorite streaming platform!
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EXUM
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Who am I? Just some guy who decided to start writing on the Internet years ago and now operates his own brand and site. Owner/Operator of Modern Neon Media, I make all kinds of niche content to suit my interests at the time. DIY Enthusiast, Brewmaster extraordinaire, and avid freak for geek culture. Follow on my socials for a more “on” version of me.
