The XX studied at the same school as Hot Chip, Burial, and Four Tet. I think this is the first time I’ve actually truly realised the power of teaching. That school clearly has some sort of secret formula that is changing the face of modern music. Well done Elliot high school, (South West London) we salute you.

The XX are four friends from high school who’s subdued, melancholic, R&B inspired folk resonates with a maturity and originality that sets them apart as something truly original.

The band was discovered after releasing a truly impressive version of Womak and Womak’s ‘teardrops’. Having signed to sub-label ‘young Turks’ and recording with various producers, the band has finally decided to go it alone deciding that they want to have full control over their own production.

The band’s latest release ‘Crystalised’ is an uplifting and melancholic record. Quality lies in its subtleties and the deep burial-esque quality that some of us have grown to really appreciate. This is an amazing new album from a bunch of talented and progressive artists that deserve recognition.