LogFAQs > #954752447

187. The xx Crystalized (2009)
from the album xx

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pib8eYDSFEI

Key lyrics:
So dont think that Im pushing you away
When youre the one that Ive kept closest

The xxs self-titled debut at first appeared rather unassuming they made minimalist pop with a moody post-punk edge. In an off year seemingly defined by Animal Collectives bizarro turn to pop - an album which seemed to promise the next step in music before ultimately fizzling out as a singular moment - and Lady Gaga breaking through with a larger than life persona, the 2010s promised to be bigger and louder than any era which came before. At the time, The xx came off as one of many strong indie bands. A decade on, however, they appear to be trendsetters with mainstream pop and even hip hop taking a minimalist, sometimes melancholy tone, The xx were unexpectedly ahead of their time.

Crystalised is the signature song from this release. The music has an aggressive force, with an ominous wail underlining the otherwise simple instrumentation. The highlight here, as with many xx songs, is the way Oliver Sim and Romy Madley Croft come into conflict as vocalists. This is a dueling love song, with one suggesting the other is moving too quickly. The song begins by giving both their own lines, coming together in harmony during the chorus. But its during the finale when things really take off the two repeat their lines, but now layered on top of each other. Their words mix together; they are now too close, forming perfect disharmony. What sounds like a mess on paper is flawlessly executed.

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My top 100 games (with write-ups): https://foolfantastic.com/top-100-video-games-project/