The xx - "Hot Like Fire" (Aaliyah Cover)

The xx - "Crystalised" 

Seeing The xx live at the Bottom Lounge here in Chicago last week, justified all the chatter and 9 out of 10 album reviews for their self-titled debut album, XX--the band is lower case the album is upper--released this summer. The mix of mellow somber singing with heavy bass, a plucking guitar and high speed drum pad makes for a much more heart pounding show than their relaxing album might suggest. After seeing them live I've been asked a few times if they live up to all the internet hype, and I have to admit, yes. While their voices are soothing, the overall effect of all the contrasting elements excites you and just makes you want to move. I highly recommend picking up their album XX, or try and catch them for their upcoming tour with fellow Elliot School grads Hot Chip.