xx - The xx
xx Image
  • Summary: This is the debut album for the South London quartet.
Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 24 out of 25
  2. Negative: 0 out of 25
  1. It's hard to imagine their music getting much better. But it's not hard to imagine their lives getting much better. Which may be all their music needs.
  2. The xx have made a debut that sounds utterly flawless; it's the kind of album that bands take years to create.
  3. Their quest for a catchy chorus is often derailed by a love of hazy atmospherics, creating a soundtrack suited for little more than late-night navelgazing. [Fall 2009, p.72]

See all 25 Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 68 out of 75
  2. Negative: 4 out of 75
  1. SteveL.
    7
    While this CD is good, it is not as ground breaking or innovative as the critics suggest - I do know, maybe for 19 year olds. There are other low-key indie rock or pop CDs released during 2009 that are better; for example, Bat For Lashes - Two Suns and Camera Obscura - My Maudlin Career; also, I recommend the just released Beach House - Teen Dream. Additional better musical investments from 2009 are Girls - Album and Dirty Projectors - Bitte Orca. I will keep this xx CD (I do like it) but I am debating whether I will still go see their upcoming sold out Atlanta show - I can get double face value for my ticket! Expand
    • 2 of 2 users said yes
  2. Epita
    5
    It often sounds as though Croft's really having to fight herself not to sound like a more polished sort of singer. Normally I like this less contrived approach but the album as a whole left me unimpressed. I've heard this sort of thing done before and done better. Expand
    • 3 of 5 users said yes
  3. NicholasD
    3
    I really liked this album a lot the first time i listened to it, unfortunately the more I listen to it the more frustrated I get. Kinda like Nouvelle Vague without the excellent covers which leaves you with great voices but nothing earth shatteringly new or spectacular. Coming soon to a coffee or candle shop near you. 10 bucks says my ex-girlfriend is listening to this right now. Expand
    • 1 of 4 users said yes

See all 75 User Reviews

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