The xx isn’t releasing their new album, I See You, until Jan. 13 but on Nov. 10 they graced us with the first single “On Hold” off the album to satisfy us for the time being. With each album the indie electronic trio push their creativity further, developing new atmospheres and soundscapes.
The third album is often the most difficult release for an artist. This is the time for the band to decide if they want to continue with the same sound that gained them attention and risk boring their audience, or if they want to venture from that and expand their quality of work, which could result in equal disappointment.
“On Hold” hints at subtle differences that we can expect from I See You while keeping vital aspects of The xx’s unique sound constant.
The single explores both perspectives of two lovers with a communication issue. Romy Madley Croft’s speaker has decided to let go of a relationship that she doesn’t see going anywhere; leaving Oliver Sim’s character confused because he didn’t realize there was something missing and thought the relationship would eventually turn into something more.
Jamie xx’s production is the true shining point of this track. He has placed the vocals even higher above and further away from the beat than he has in the past. The beat exudes the confusion that is flowing through the lovers’ minds. “On Hold” is more pop than The xx generally experiments with. The beat is brighter than their previous work, while the timbre of the vocals is familiar.
These elements may hint at what we are about to get with I See You. But even if this song is a little dissociated from The xx’s dreary, somber sound, there is no way to not be excited for their next album.