Famous for their synchronized and organic rhythms, The XX are one of the most celebrated indie groups to date. Their music is notably influenced by Daft Punk and M83, which is quite evident throughout their deep under-toned beats. In their new album “I See You,” The XX incorporates reggae and other forms of hip-hop as an attempt of diversification on their music. Though, many indie bands have been unable to pull this off, The XX is able to bring it together wonderfully. Unique to this group in “I See You,” The XX captivates and pulls audiences towards them in a new way. Forging their own path for their music has truly paid off in this album.
The album opens up with hip-hop influences in the song “Dangerous.” In this rhythmically pleasing outline, with a trumpet background, the XX brings their music to a new level of maturity. Unlike many of their past tracks, “Dangerous” excites and energizes audiences with beats that grabs listeners attention from the beginning of the album. As the music melts, listeners can easily dance and follow along with the beats of this track.
In “Lips,” The XX reincorporates their EDM and indie influences. With light drumming and a pitched bass guitar background, listeners are soothed by Coachella vibes right in their own home. The ethereal sensations that The XX has displayed finally become effective in their music. The transition that this group has been trying to make has become a work of art and is clearly shown in their modern beats that makes this group noteworthy in the modern music scene.
Though, the beats are absolutely beautiful and special throughout the album, the vocals of the groups continue to be excruciating. Their vocals are like oil and water – neither will mix with the other. The rhythms and sounds have so many pulses that brings the music alive, but this group continues to incorporate tiresome vocals, adding a layer of uselessness that the group could do without.
In “Brave For You,” The XX continues along their path of melancholy with an organ filled ballad. Electric bass guitar strings play off in the background creating a feeling of discomfort. The sounds and instruments simply do not mesh well together in a relevant direction. Whether that was intentional or not, The XX must be admired for capturing listeners attention.
One of the most popular tracks off the album is “On Hold,” a true pop song. The XX pursues a catchy chorus and that echoes smoothly making this song one of the most special tracks off the album. The band laments a lost love with this ballad, while an echoing voice breathes into the chorus. This song truly stands on its own for innovation and relevance, proving that The XX has credibility to their craft.
The interesting aspect about this album is that you will either love it or hate it. As a previous listener of The XX this was not their worst work yet, but I was still bored throughout their album. The group makes some of the most interesting rhythms in the indie rock music scene, but this group fails to push the limits with their music and lyrical content. There is a lot of work that they can do with the substance they have, and it is unfortunate that they fail to expand their abilities as artists.
