The xx - I See You
The xx - I See You
The xx return with a brilliant expansion on their established sound. I must admit, while I enjoyed their debut, I wasn't fully on board the xx train until hearing this release. Everything is just more lush and polished (which doesn't necessarily make something better, but it really works here). Also, it seems every member has evolved and improved their talents for this record. Of note is the way that Jamie xx brings some of the less minimalistic production he employed on In Colour to bear on these tracks.
On an emotional level, this music still has the introverted sensuality and romance of their previous releases, but they've come out of their shell a bit. This is a more outgoing and expressive record, everything is less guarded, less shadowy, less mysterious. They've given up on trying (and succeeding) to be cool, and have instead decided to be earnest.
It's a great record to start the year off with. I hope the rest of 2017 can live up to it.
Stream in full below via YouTube.
Highlights: Say Something Loving • Replica • On Hold
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