The xx is an English indie pop band formed in London in 2005. The band consists of Romy Madley Croft on guitar and vocals, Oliver Sim on bass and vocals, and Jamie Smith on drums, production, and programming. Their music is known for its minimalistic and atmospheric sound, combining indie pop, electronic, and R&B influences.
The xx released their debut album, “xx,” in 2009, which received critical acclaim and earned the band the Mercury Prize. Their follow-up album, “Coexist,” was released in 2012 and continued their signature sound while incorporating more electronic elements. In 2017, they released their third album, “I See You,” which received widespread critical acclaim and was nominated for the Mercury Prize.
The xx’s music often explores themes of love, heartbreak, and relationships, with Madley Croft and Sim’s vocals often intertwining in a hauntingly beautiful way. Their live performances are known for their atmospheric visuals and minimalist stage design, emphasizing the intimacy and emotional intensity of their music.
The xx has gained a loyal following around the world, and their music has been featured in films, TV shows, and commercials. They have been praised for their unique sound and emotional depth, and have solidified their place as one of the most influential indie pop bands of the 21st century.
10. Crystalised
“Crystalised” is a song by The xx, released in 2009 as the second single from their debut album, “xx”. The song features the signature minimalistic and atmospheric sound of the band, with a simple guitar riff and haunting vocals from Romy Madley Croft and Oliver Sim. The lyrics speak of a relationship that has lost its spark and has become stagnant, with the chorus repeating the line “You’ve applied the pressure / To have me crystalised”. The song’s emotional depth and understated production have made it a fan favorite and a standout track in The xx’s discography.
9. Heart Skipped a Beat
“Heart Skipped a Beat” is an emotional and haunting song by the English indie pop band The xx, released in 2009 as the second single from their debut studio album, “xx”. The song features a minimalist arrangement, with sparse instrumentation and the interplay of male and female vocals. The lyrics describe the intense emotions and physical sensations experienced when seeing someone you love, with the titular “heart skipped a beat” representing the rush of emotions. The song showcases the band’s signature atmospheric sound and unique approach to indie pop, and has become a fan favorite and a critical success.
8. Angels
“Angels” is a hauntingly beautiful song by English indie pop band The xx, released in 2012. The track features a simple and elegant melody, with sparse instrumentation and tender vocals from band members Romy Madley Croft and Oliver Sim. The lyrics speak of love and devotion, as the singers vow to support each other through the trials and tribulations of life. The song’s ethereal atmosphere and emotive lyrics make it a powerful and deeply moving ballad that has resonated with listeners around the world. “Angels” is a standout track from The xx’s critically acclaimed album “Coexist” and remains a fan favorite.
7. Reunion
“Reunion” is a song by The xx, released in 2012 as the second single from their second album, “Coexist”. The song features the band’s signature minimalistic sound, with a simple drum beat and a prominent bass line. The vocals of Romy Madley Croft and Oliver Sim intertwine throughout the song, creating a sense of emotional intimacy. The lyrics speak of a rekindled relationship, with the chorus repeating the line “See the stars, they’re shining bright / Everything’s alright tonight”. “Reunion” is a fan favorite and showcases The xx’s ability to create an intimate and atmospheric sound.
6. Islands
“Islands” is a melancholic and introspective song by the English indie pop band The xx, released in 2009 as the third single from their debut studio album, “xx”. The song features a sparse arrangement, with soft guitar riffs, gentle percussion, and the haunting interplay of male and female vocals. The lyrics describe the feeling of being emotionally disconnected from someone you love, with the “islands” representing the emotional distance between them. The song showcases the band’s unique sound and approach to indie pop, with its understated instrumentation and emotional depth. “Islands” has become a fan favorite and a critical success, and remains a staple of the band’s live shows.
5. VCR
“VCR” is a dreamy and introspective song by English indie pop band The xx, released in 2009. The track features a hypnotic and understated melody, with hushed vocals from band members Romy Madley Croft and Oliver Sim. The song’s lyrics speak of nostalgia and longing, as the singers recall a past relationship and the memories associated with it. The use of the VCR as a metaphor for revisiting old memories adds a touch of melancholy and wistfulness to the song. “VCR” is a standout track from The xx’s debut album “xx” and exemplifies the band’s unique blend of atmospheric production and introspective lyrics.
4. Sunset
“Sunset” is a song by The xx, released in 2012 as the ninth track on their second album, “Coexist”. The song is a departure from the band’s signature minimalistic sound, featuring a more upbeat and electronic production. The vocals of Romy Madley Croft and Oliver Sim are more playful and upbeat than in their previous songs, with the lyrics speaking of a playful flirtation between two people. “Sunset” showcases The xx’s ability to evolve their sound while still maintaining their emotional depth and intimate lyrics. The song has become a fan favorite and is often played at the band’s live performances.
3. Intro
“Intro” is an ethereal and cinematic instrumental by the English indie pop band The xx, released in 2009 as the opening track from their debut studio album, “xx”. The song features a minimalist arrangement, with soft guitar arpeggios, atmospheric synths, and gentle percussion. The song sets the tone for the album, with its dreamy and introspective sound, and creates a sense of anticipation for what’s to come. “Intro” has become one of the band’s signature songs, and has been used in numerous films, television shows, and commercials. The song showcases the band’s unique sound and approach to indie pop, with its emphasis on mood and atmosphere.
2. Chained
“Chained” is a hauntingly beautiful song by English indie pop band The xx, released in 2012. The track features an atmospheric and minimalist melody, with delicate vocals from band members Romy Madley Croft and Oliver Sim. The song’s lyrics speak of the struggles of a relationship, as the singers navigate the complexities of love and commitment. The use of repetition in the chorus, with the singers asking if they’re “chained to the rhythm”, adds to the sense of entrapment and uncertainty. “Chained” is a standout track from The xx’s critically acclaimed album “Coexist” and showcases the band’s unique ability to convey complex emotions through their music.
1. Basic Space
“Basic Space” is a song by The xx, released in 2009 as the third single from their debut album, “xx”. The song features a minimalistic production, with a simple drum beat and guitar riff. The vocals of Romy Madley Croft and Oliver Sim are haunting and intimate, with the lyrics speaking of a relationship that is suffocating and lacking in excitement. The chorus repeats the line “You give me this feeling in my stomach / Like I’m homesick”, showcasing the band’s ability to convey complex emotions through their music. “Basic Space” is a fan favorite and has become a staple of The xx’s live performances.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
