The most defining feature of The xx's self-titled debut were the hushed back and forth vocals of Romy Madley Croft and Oliver Sim. Rather than creating a bigger sound with a hit record under their belt, the band has actually paired down their sound for their forthcoming second record, Coexist (set for release on September 10.) Though their calling-card breathy vocals, simple melodies, and passionate lyrics are still intact, the real star of the album is member/producer Jamie xx's subtle drumming and electronics. Despite being a quieter record, Coexist is much more musically varied and complex than The xx.
The subtle drumming that quietly enters a third of the way through Coexist's first single "Angels" has an astounding emotional effect on the song. Rather than filling out the song's sound, the sparse beat actually amplifies the feelings loneliness and heartbreak sung by Madley Croft. (Listen to this solo version of "Angels" recorded in the bands' Tokyo hotel room and it's amazing how much of an impact the drumming has on the original.) Second single "Chained" is a much more prominent example of Jamie's influence, as there is an electronic drum-beat throughout but only a single guitar line at the end. Though not the dance record some predicted, Coexist's nods to club music are a huge step for a band that really haven't changed the rest of the formula that made them successful. A band that is already immensely popular, Coexist will only propel The xx to new levels of notoriety. As the most important catalyst of the band's updated sound and a well regarded independent producer (Radiohead remixes, Drake and Rihanna's hit "Take Care," and his Gil Scott-Heron collaboration We're New Here) the 23 year old Jamie xx is already one of the most important men in music.
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