The xx Return: A Look at Their Enduring Influence, Even on Swedish Shores
British indie darlings The xx recently kicked off a series of sold-out comeback shows in Mexico City, marking their first live performances in eight years. While The xx are not Swedish, their unique sound has undeniably resonated with and influenced artists globally, including within Sweden's vibrant pop scene.
The xx Make Triumphant Return in Mexico City
British indie pop trio The xx recently began a highly anticipated series of three sold-out shows at Mexico City's Auditorio Nacional, marking their first live performances in eight years [Source: NME.com]. The band, consisting of Romy Madley Croft, Oliver Sim, and Jamie xx (Jamie Smith), last performed together in 2017 [Source: Pitchfork.com]. These comeback gigs have generated significant buzz, with fans eagerly awaiting new material and the return of their distinctive, minimalist sound.
The Mexico City dates, which ran from May 28th to May 30th, 2024, saw the band perform a setlist that reportedly included fan favorites from their three studio albums: xx (2009), Coexist (2012), and I See You (2017) [Source: Setlist.fm]. The Auditorio Nacional, a renowned venue, provided an intimate yet grand setting for their long-awaited return.
Global Impact and Swedish Resonance
While The xx hail from London, their melancholic, atmospheric pop has garnered a global following and left an indelible mark on contemporary music. Their influence extends far beyond the UK, reaching various music scenes, including Sweden's prolific pop landscape. Swedish artists and producers, known for their sophisticated and often emotionally resonant pop, have frequently drawn inspiration from international acts that push sonic boundaries.
The xx's signature blend of hushed vocals, sparse instrumentation, and evocative lyricism created a sound that was both intimate and expansive. This approach to production and songwriting has found echoes in the work of some Swedish artists, particularly those exploring more introspective and electronic-infused pop. The emphasis on mood, texture, and understated emotion, rather than overt pop maximalism, is a quality that can be observed in certain corners of Swedish indie pop and electronic music.
Jamie xx, the band's producer and beatmaker, has also had a significant solo career, releasing critically acclaimed electronic music that further showcases his innovative production techniques [Source: AllMusic.com]. His work, both with The xx and as a solo artist, has contributed to a broader appreciation for nuanced electronic soundscapes, a genre that thrives in Sweden. Many Swedish producers and DJs are at the forefront of electronic music innovation, and the sophisticated layering and rhythmic subtlety found in Jamie xx's work align with the high production values often celebrated in Swedish music.
What's Next for The xx?
The Mexico City shows have fueled speculation about new music from The xx. Both Romy and Oliver Sim have released solo albums since the band's last live performances, with Romy's Mid Air (2023) exploring dance-pop territories and Oliver Sim's Hideous Bastard (2022) delving into more personal, electronic-tinged narratives [Source: TheGuardian.com, Pitchfork.com]. Jamie xx has also remained active with solo releases and DJ sets [Source: ResidentAdvisor.net].
Their reunion on stage suggests a renewed collective energy, leaving fans worldwide, including those in Sweden who appreciate their unique artistry, hopeful for a new chapter from The xx. Their return to the stage is a reminder of their lasting impact and the universal appeal of their distinctive sound.
