The xx has crafted something truly special in their self-titled debut, a sound that feels both intimately personal and universally resonant. Born from the urban guitar tribes of 2009, this album weaves together threads of new wave indebted reverberation with plumes of post-dubstep sub-bass, all wrapped in the rich vocal textures that have become their signature.
What sets The xx apart is their masterful balance of minimalism and emotional depth. Their music doesn't scream for attention; it invites you closer, creating an intimate space where every note and silence matters. The production is pristine yet raw, allowing the subtle details to shine through—the gentle plucks of guitar, the deep basslines that rumble beneath the surface, and the ethereal vocal harmonies that float above it all.
At the heart of The xx lies the extraordinary vocal partnership of Romy and Oliver. Their voices intertwine with a chemistry that's rare in modern music, creating harmonies that feel both ancient and utterly contemporary. When they sing together, you can feel the years of shared experience and mutual understanding, their voices blending into something that transcends individual performance.
This album demands to be experienced in the right setting—late at night with headphones, or during those quiet moments when you need music that understands. Each track builds its own atmosphere, from the haunting beauty of "Intro" to the heartfelt vulnerability of "Stars." It's the kind of music that stays with you long after the final note fades, finding its way into your memories and moments.
With critical acclaim including Pitchfork's "Best New Music" designation, The xx has rightfully earned their place as one of the UK's most original and treasured alt-pop artifacts. This isn't just music you hear—it's music you feel.
