On a gorgeous night at an amazing open-air venue under the stars, The xx took Sydney’s breath away. The indie London group returned to Australia this month on their headline tour for third album I See You, a mere six months after appearing at staple festival Splendour in the Grass. So spoiled are we that they also brought along special guests Kučka and Kelela to kick things off.
Filling in for rapper Earl Sweatshirt (who unfortunately cancelled due to personal matters) Kučka is certainly a name you should have heard of by now. The Perth singer has recently collaborated with Cosmo’s Midnight, Andrei Eremin and Flume, and has supported the latter and fellow protégé Vince Staples on their latest Oz tours. As the sun set over Hyde Park, her distinctively soft treble vocals floated over minimal, industrial electronica that squared perfectly to draw in the crowd.
Next, R&B queen Kelela sounded off with some velvety harmonies. The buzzed-about up-and-comer exuded a magnetism that was impossible to ignore as she belted out that dreamy post-millenial soul she has become known for. With her DJ and singers in tow, she hypnotised the crowd.
Finally, the stars were well and truly twinkling in time for the main event. The stage was illuminated and singer Romy Madley Croft’s barebones guitar set the tone on apt opener Intro. Bassist Oliver Sim then lunged into a matching choreography, dipping his bass, grinning mischievously and shuffling to the pulsating rhythm provided by producer Jamie xx, who was poised behind a transparent altar placed upstage centre. The set design was one of the most detailed and dramatic witnessed in recent memory; crystalline floor tiles lined with LEDs and pillars of mirrors that spun climactically.
It was an unexpectedly thrilling display – Sim’s flamboyant dancing and Madley Croft’s messy-haired thrashing played perfectly to what is otherwise some of the most optimistically soporific music to ever hit the mainstream. The xx produce a sound that is reputedly soaked in melancholy set to breathy, vaporous beats, but here, on this stage and in this light, it was exceptionally grand.
Kučka
Kelela
The xx
Photos: Dani Hansen/Howl & Echoes
The xx have always been known for their minimalist approach. Their stripped back, evocative and beautiful music has always overflowed with emotion, each sonic nook and cranny armed with the capacity to weaken the listener’s knees with a single chord or melodic line.
In 2009, their self-titled debut album changed the way we viewed pop music when they sprang onto the scene with their distinctive sound. The group, composed of Jamie xx, Romy Madley Croft, and Oliver Sim, gained international recognition, going on to win the coveted Mercury Prize among other accolades. Three years later, in 2012, the xx released Coexist, which, while it didn’t garner the same amount of praise as its predecessor, saw the group expand on the intimacy and charm of their sound. Ultimately they became one of the most sought-after groups for festivals around the world, as well as being hugely influential for countless artists who either emulated, or were influenced by their sound and production style.
After a lengthy break, most notably due to Jamie xx forging an incredibly successful career as a solo artist and releasing his mesmerising album In Colour, the trio now return with their third album, I See You. When discussing their upcoming project back in 2015, the band said that the release “Would have a completely different concept” to the previous two, and indeed they honoured their statement.
For fans of the classic xx sound, I See You might take a little getting used to. For those who haven’t listened to the xx, but whose friends have regaled them with tales of their tear-jerking textures and poignant feels, this might not be the best place to start. The trio’s chemistry is still strong and the album has an unmistakably xx sound, but it admittedly lacks the immediate impact of, say, what happened the first time you hear Islands. That said, that an album requires repeated listens to fully set in is not a criticism; it’s simply different.
The opening track Dangerous announces this new sound with trumpet flares before revealing a bright, danceable beat. It’s amazing what a side project can do to a band; while Jamie xx is certainly not the only star of this amazingly talented trio, the album almost feels like it’s been more influenced by In Colour than anything the band have done previously. The dance vibes are noticeable throughout, noticeable so in their first single, On Hold.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=blJKoXWlqJk
In the run up to the album release, the group said that they were looking to step out of the limiting comfort zone of the first two albums in an attempt to reach a broader audience. On Hold exemplifies this perfectly. The track certainly grows on you, and it’ll certainly reach a broader audience, namely that of Jamie’s solo work and the dance music community in general.
A Violent Noise, Performance and Replica seem to hark back to that earlier sound, with a warm familiarity in these haunting, introspective tracks. Replica’s guitar and echoed piano layers are particularly reminiscent of their earlier approach.
There’s a real complexity and sonic density that evokes intrigue and repeated listens throughout; you need to work to break in the new sound, and that’s not a bad thing by any means. It’s far removed from the soft, almost easy listening emotiveness of their first two albums, and frankly that’s a good thing. I See You may not be what older fans will expect, but it nevertheless has a lot to offer; from the gorgeous lyricism to the bright beats, there’s a lot to absorb, and a lot to enjoy, even if the notion of “reaching a broader audience” is a little terrifying at first.
Image: Supplied
2016 was a huge year in music, no question. Release after release of insanely high quality music and 2017 is shaping up to be a very promising year in music as well. Here are some of the albums we’re looking forward to in the new year and some of the rumours that are getting us excited for what’s to come:
The xx, I See You
Expected release date: January 13
It’s been just a little over four years since The xx released their sophomore effort Coexist. The friend who introduced me to what is now one of my favourite bands once described their self titled debut and Coexist as ‘the stories teenage infatuation followed by the stories of adult relationships’ as their sound matured over time. We’ve been given a taste of what is to come with lead single On Hold and the newly dropped Say Something Loving, we may be looking at an xx album that explores the moments where you realise your relationship isn’t working, and you have no idea where you go from here. Prepare to feel.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=blJKoXWlqJk
Kehlani, SweetSexySavage
Expected release date: January 27
After dropping her mixtape You Should Be Here in 2015 to massive acclaim, 2016 was an intense, emotional year for Kehlani. Following a damaging social media incident, Kehlani was briefly hospitalised. Soon, she returned to the live scene with the beautiful 24/7, in which she shed light on the incident and, before following it up with teaser singles CRZY, Distraction and Advice. From what we’ve heard so far, SweetSexySavage is going to be an R&B-heavy album with incredibly personal lyrics. Kehlani was named ‘one to watch’ in 2015 and in 2017 I believe she’s about to prove that.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A1waZCoYbts
Big Sean, I Decided
Expected release date: February 3
After crafting a modern classic with his 2015 third album Dark Sky Paradise Big Sean is only moving from strength to strength. Last year he joined forces with Jhené Aiko to release TWENTY88, commenced work on G.O.O.D Music’s second compilation album Cruel Winter and was nominated for a slew of awards. Released in succession, lead singles Bounce Back and No More Interviews immediately set the bar high, as well as new single Moves, which came out with the official album announcement late last month. One of G.O.O.D’s most consistently promising artists, this should be a great album indeed.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=phr1pOFK1V8
Sampha, Process
Expected release date: February 3
On a routine flight between Melbourne and Sydney some time ago, I opened the inflight magazine. In the music section was a feature on, at the time, up and coming electronic musician SBTRKT. The visuals were so intriguing that I went a bought his self-titled debut the same day. This also introduced me to British crooner Sampha, who features heavily on SBTRKT’s work, and has since been called up to sing and produce with some of the world’s biggest names, like Kanye West, Drake, Solange and Frank Ocean. Sampha’s voice is a work of art in and of itself and his production talents are second to none. Having released two EPs and featuring on so many other songs over the past few years, it’s almost difficult to believe that Process is his debut album, but we absolutely cannot wait to experience the fully realised project, particularly as a solo artist, rather than as a collaborator. Pre-released singles Timmy’s Prayer and Blood On Me are both outstanding – this will undoubtedly be one of the best “debuts” of 2017.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_oM1DFL43Lk
Thundamentals, Everyone We Know
Expected release date: February 10
Sydney legends Thundamentals have been off the scene since their 2014 release So We Can Remember but have come roaring back with the announcement of their next album Everyone We Know. In 2016 we were treated to four singles Late Nights, Never Say Never, Think About It and Ignorance Is Bliss as well as a huge national tour with Pez and Mallrat (check out H&E’s review of their Melbourne show here). 2017 is set to be a huge year for the Thundas, let’s get it.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t61f8PZtK8k
Rumours
G.O.O.D MUSIC (Various artists), Cruel Winter– G.O.O.D Music/Various Artists
Kanye West’s beloved imprint released its first compilation Cruel Summer was released back in 2012, and its follow-up, Cruel Winter has been constantly rumoured ever since. In the middle of 2016, West released a massive collaborative track, Champions, featuring heavyweights Gucci Mane, Big Sean, 2 Chainz, Travis Scott, Yo Gotti, Quavo and Desiigner. The track, as well as a few related social media posts, sparked more interest in the compilation. It has now been rumoured for a February release, although this is completely tentative; considering how busy Kanye West has been in both his personal life and careers, not to mention so many of their artists releasing their own albums and embarking on world tours (Desiigner is in Australia right now and Big Sean’s album is out next month, to name just two examples,) exactly where they found the time to piece it together is unknown. That said, they have had almost five years, so you never know.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fyfOvJ6ByIY
Arcade Fire
During a reddit AMA in mid-2016, the band’s frontman Win Butler hinted that the next Arcade Fire album could be ready for the North American spring of 2017. Back in October, the Canadian group also played a secret show, during which they apparently debuted several new songs. Considering that Will Butler released his solo album last year, the 3+ year break since 2013’s Reflektor is understandable, but we’re hoping that 2017 will see the band’s fifth studio album.
Arctic Monkeys
Arctic Monkeys members have been busy with their own projects, including Alex Turner’s Last Shadow Puppets, and drummer Matt Helders spent much of 2016 touring with Iggy Pop. Now that that’s all been wrapepd up, it’s looking like a follow-up to 2014’s AM is on its way; the boys were recently spotted arriving in their home town, spurring rumours that they’re back in the studio.
https://twitter.com/1892AnfieldRoad/status/807193215703142401
Bad Religion
Donald Trump is President of the United States, so of course Bad Religion are making an album.
Gorillaz
Gorillaz creator Damon Albarn has been hinting at a new Gorillaz album throughout 2016, sending the internet into a frenzy. Now slated for 2017 the album is rumoured to feature Vic Mensa, De La Soul, Snoop Dogg, LCD Soundsystem, André 3000 and The Horrors, just to name a few.
London Grammar
Fresh from performing at Falls Festival, London Grammar dropped an ethereal new track on January 1, no doubt a first taste of their long-awaited follow up to 2013’s If you Wait. Judging by the ethereal atmospherics and the spotlight firmly focused on Hannah Reid’s stirring vocals, it’s looking like the album will no doubt expand on the sound fans came to know and love on their groundbreaking debut.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jqhgXAGP4Ho
Schoolboy Q
Although he only dropped Blank Face last year, Q recently posted on Instagram that he’s already working on a new album, which will hopefully see the light of day this year. We’re cool with that!
System of a Down
SOAD have been spotted on Instagram practicing new material, and have just announced a string of new shows. If this is a new album, it’s the bands first in 12 years. Further evidence of new material is that they have announced a few European tour dates, and it’s looking like they’ll perform at a few festivals as well.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CSvFpBOe8eY
It’ll be hard for 2017 to live up to the amazing music that 2016 produced, but considering that these are just a tiny percentage of the albums we’re waiting on, it’s looking pretty promising.
It always pays to tick the box “Yes, send me information” when you sign up to a fanclub.
Fans of The xx who put their inboxes or letter boxes at risk when signing up for updates from the band, recently woke up to a delightful early Christmas present in the form of free tickets to a newly announced xx tour. The tickets essentially served as the announcement itself, coming soon after the news of a new album and single.
Recipients of the tickets have taken to Instagram to share photos of the sleek, shiny invitations which invite “you (and a friend) to our show.”
They go on to read that “Your name will be on the artist guest list at the venue where you can pick up your tickets on the night of the show.”
A photo posted by @lfenners on Nov 15, 2016 at 2:49am PST
Freebies are one thing, but exclusive free access and information about yet-to-be-announced concerts take this trick into a whole new realm of fan benefits.
Expect more dates to be added to the band’s already growing roster of shows for this year and early next year.
The band is set to return to the stage for the first time in 2 years this month with a swath of shows through Europe and Japan, before kicking off 2017 with a stack of South American dates and a presumably expanded European run.
The shows will be supporting the band’s yet-to-be-released new album I See You, due out January 13. Listen to the first taste of the album, On Hold, below.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1_oA9UmRd4I
Image: High Snobiety
Jamie xx, one third of London trio The xx, has without question outshone his peers in 2015 with the massive success of debut album In Colour.
Despite the producer’s hectic schedule, including extensive touring, radio programs, composing ballet scores and more, he hasn’t been neglecting his duties with The xx.
Alongside fellow bandmates Romy Madley Croft and Oliver Sim, the trio have taken to Facebook to announce that they have been working on a third full length album, three years after 2012’s Coexist.
https://www.facebook.com/thexx/photos/a.128325876003.126288.10429446003/10153928949571004/?type=3&theater
It seems that the London natives are working up until Christmas to push towards finishing the album, which has reportedly been in production for well over a year.
For their forthcoming album the group has been working closely with high profile producer Rodaidh McDonald, also known for his work with King Krule, How to Dress Well, Adele, Savages, Daughter, The Horrors and Vampire Weekend.
The band is hoping to release the album in 2016 Jamie revealed to Gigwise in late November.
Jamie xx is visiting Australia later this month for a run of festivals and headline shows, including one special double bill with the legendary Four Tet.
Tour Dates
Wed, Dec 30: Lost Paradise Festival, Peats Ridge NSW
Tickets here
Sat, Jan 2: Belvoir Homestead Function Centre, Upper Swan WA
Tickets here
Sun, Jan 3: Enmore Theatre, Sydney
Tickets here
Thurs, Jan 7: Thebarton Theatre, Torrensville SA
Tickets here
Sat, Jan 9: Fomo Festival, Brisbane
Tickets here
Sun, January 10: The Forum, Melbourne
Tickets here
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PElhV8z7I60
Read more: Track By Track: Jamie xx’s ‘In Color’