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The xx: London's Quiet Storm of Modern R&B Pop
20 Aug
Summary
- Young London band The xx crafts slow, furtive pop music focused on sex.
- Influenced by modern R&B, they use abstract elements like bass and sparse arrangements.
- Debut album 'xx' is praised for its thoughtful, nuanced, and self-contained sound.
The xx, a quartet of 20-year-olds from South London, are making waves with their debut album, 'xx.' They craft predominantly slow, furtive pop music, largely centered on themes of sex and interpersonal relationships.
Drawing significant inspiration from modern R&B, the band incorporates abstract elements of the genre, such as a liberal use of bass tones, complemented by a drum machine. This approach results in copiously tidy compositions that utilize airy, lingering negative space.
The album is noted for its quiet, thoughtful, and self-contained nature. Critics suggest it feels remarkably fully formed, offering a nuanced and surprising listening experience that belies the band's youth.
