The xx "xx"

Unlike some of the major players out there, I don't have the time or resources to listen to hundreds of albums per year. But I always pay attention to year-end lists to see what I missed and what I need to check out. One of these bands is The xx (Yes, lower case). NME ranked them #2 for 2009 and Pitchfork had them at #3.

This album is being classified as dream pop and it definitely has an atmosphere all it's own. It's a down-tempo pop. In the same ballpark as The Temper Trap's "Sweet Disposition". Just as broad and stunning too.

Must hear: Crystalised (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pib8eYDSFEI)

(Release Date: 10/20/09)