#21 of 25
· Cratewise Editorial
“Minimalist, intimate, hushed. Romy and Oliver's intertwined voices over barely-there beats. Everything is space and whisper. Volume low. Curtains open.”
The xx is an English indie pop trio formed in London in 2005, consisting of Romy Madley Croft, Oliver Sim, and Jamie xx (Jamie Adams). The band emerged from the Wandsworth art school scene and gained widespread recognition with their self-titled debut album in 2009, which showcased their minimalist approach to production and songwriting. Their follow-up album 'Coexist' (2012) continued their exploration of sparse arrangements and emotional intimacy, while 'I See You' (2017) marked a shift toward more expansive, dance-influenced production. The xx have become influential figures in contemporary indie and electronic music, known for their understated aesthetic and collaborative songwriting process where all three members contribute vocals and instrumentation.
Style
The xx create minimalist indie pop and electronic music characterized by sparse instrumentation, breathy vocals, and intricate rhythmic production. Their sound blends post-punk influences with contemporary electronic production, resulting in intimate, atmospheric tracks that emphasize space and restraint over conventional arrangements.
Significance
The xx's critically acclaimed albums, particularly their debut and 'Coexist,' are essential acquisitions for collectors interested in 21st-century indie and electronic music. Their distinctive visual presentation and meticulous production make their vinyl editions highly valued, with their early records considered important documents of contemporary pop music's evolution toward minimalism.
The xx's self-titled debut 'xx' emerged from the London indie music scene in 2009, crafted by the trio of Romy Madley Croft, Oliver Sim, and Jamie xx (Jamie Gracie Williams) in their early twenties. Recorded primarily at a home studio in Chiswick, West London, the album showcases their minimalist aesthetic—sparse instrumentation, intimate vocals, and careful production that leaves breathing room between sounds. Jamie xx handled much of the production alongside co-producer Arca, creating a signature sound that emphasized restraint and space. The creative chemistry between Croft and Sim's intertwining vocals, supported by Jamie xx's atmospheric production, became the album's defining characteristic. The recording process was notably democratic, with all three members contributing compositionally and arranging their ideas collaboratively.
Historical Context
Released in August 2009, 'xx' arrived during a period of post-dubstep experimentation and indie pop's continued evolution. The album's minimal, electronic-influenced indie sound resonated with critics and audiences fatigued by overproduction, earning widespread acclaim and introducing The xx to a global audience. It won the Mercury Prize in 2010, significantly elevating their profile. The album's introspective, melancholic tone reflected broader cultural moments—the tail end of the financial crisis and the rise of bedroom pop and lo-fi aesthetics on the internet. Its influence on subsequent indie and electronic music proved substantial, inspiring countless bands toward minimalist arrangements.
Pressing Notes
The original UK pressing on Island Records (ISLAND002) is highly sought by collectors. Early pressings vary in quality; some copies exhibit slight surface noise due to manufacturing inconsistencies common in 2009. A deluxe edition with bonus tracks was released in certain territories. The album has been reissued multiple times, including audiophile pressings on 180-gram vinyl. Collectors should seek first pressings for original packaging and sound characteristics, though later reissues offer improved mastering. The distinctive cover—a simple red cross on white background—has remained consistent across editions, making variant identification important for serious collectors.
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