The xx: On Hold Vinyl 7″

I See You, the highly anticipated third LP from London indie-pop darlings The xx, is slated to drop in mid January, and here is the lead single, “On Hold.” It’s the first from the gang since 2012, and it’s really good. Jamie xx lays down a chill, dance-y foundation with tasteful drums/bass, gentle synths, and wait for this a HALL & OATES sample (“I Can” Go For That”), with Romy and Oliver going back and forth and painting a bittersweet picture of a relationship in limbo (just like being “On Hold” on a phone). The song sets the bar high for I See You (as did Jamie xx’s solo effort In Colour), and this is limited-edition 7″ (3,000 copies only), with etching on the b-side, is pretty necessary if you’re a fan. Packaging also includes mire board w/ debossed x and track title.

• music label: Young Turks 2016

reviewed by kanim 12/2016