The xx: An Immersive Visual Journey
The xx, known for their ethereal soundscapes and haunting lyrics, have carved out a unique niche in the music world. Their music videos are not just visual accompaniments but integral pieces of art that amplify the emotional and aesthetic impact of their songs. This page is your gateway to exploring these visual masterpieces, delving into the stories behind each video and the directors who brought them to life.
Early Beginnings
The journey of The xx’s visual artistry begins with "Crystalised," directed by the creative duo of Alex Flick and Masato Riesser. This minimalist video introduced the world to the band’s distinct aesthetic. Riesser's use of stark contrasts and intimate close-ups perfectly mirrors the song’s delicate balance of tension and release. According to Riesser, “The simplicity of the video was meant to reflect the raw emotion of the track. We wanted to keep it as stripped down as possible to let the music speak for itself.”
The xx in their debut music video 'Crystalised' directed by Alex Flick and Masato Riesser.
"VCR," directed by Marcus Söderlund, followed. This video is a nostalgic trip down memory lane, blending surreal imagery with the simplicity of everyday moments. Söderlund explained, “We wanted to capture the essence of youthful love and longing through playful and whimsical scenes. The use of everyday objects and settings was intentional to ground the video in reality while evoking a dream-like quality.”
The xx's 'VCR' music video directed by Marcus Söderlund."
Rise to Fame
As The xx’s popularity soared, their music videos grew in complexity and storytelling. "Islands," directed by Saam Farahmand, featured a mesmerizing choreographed dance sequence. This video highlighted themes of repetition and connection, with dancers' synchronized movements reflecting the band's tight-knit dynamic and the song's intricate rhythms. Farahmand noted, “The choreography and visual motifs were designed to create a hypnotic experience that drew viewers into the song's emotional core.”
The xx's 'Islands' music video directed by Saam Farahmand.
"Chained," directed by Young Replicant, took a bold step with its underwater sequences. The video’s haunting and dreamlike atmosphere mirrored the song’s emotional depth and longing. The fluidity and weightlessness of the underwater scenes symbolized the feeling of being submerged in one's emotions. Young Replicant shared, “The underwater setting was chosen to represent the suffocating nature of unresolved emotions. The visuals were meant to evoke a sense of being lost and searching for clarity.”
The xx's 'Chained' music video directed by Young Replicant.
Mature Era
In 2016, The xx released "On Hold," directed by Alasdair McLellan. This visually stunning video blended nostalgic Americana with contemporary aesthetics, featuring wide-open landscapes, suburban settings, and moments of introspection. McLellan emphasized the contrast between youthful exuberance and the melancholy of growing up. He stated, “The blend of old and new, combined with its cinematic quality, was intended to capture the bittersweet essence of the song. We wanted to evoke a sense of nostalgia while grounding it in the present.”
The xx's 'On Hold' music video directed by Alasdair McLellan.
"Say Something Loving," also directed by Alasdair McLellan, continued this visual journey. The vibrant colors and urban landscapes contrasted with the song’s introspective lyrics, creating a dynamic and engaging visual experience. McLellan explained, “The video depicted moments of connection and disconnection, reflecting the song's exploration of love and vulnerability. The use of vibrant hues and urban backdrops provided a fresh visual perspective that complemented The xx's evolving sound.”
The xx's 'Say Something Loving' music video directed by Alasdair McLellan.
Recent Releases
"I Dare You," a 2017 collaboration between Alasdair McLellan and fashion house Calvin Klein, featured Millie Bobby Brown and other young stars. This video blended high fashion with suburban life, creating a unique visual narrative that explores themes of youth, love, and self-discovery. The juxtaposition of high-fashion aesthetics with everyday suburban scenes created a compelling visual story. McLellan noted, “The video’s emphasis on individuality and self-expression made it a memorable addition to The xx’s repertoire.”
The xx's 'I Dare You' music video directed by Alasdair McLellan and Calvin Klein.
"Brave For You" (Marfa Demo Version) offered an intimate and raw portrayal of the band’s connection to their music. Directed by The xx themselves, this video provided a behind-the-scenes look at their creative process and emotional journey. Romy Madley Croft shared, “The stripped-down, documentary-style approach gave fans a glimpse into our world, highlighting our authenticity and dedication to our craft. We wanted to show the raw emotion behind our music.”
The xx's 'Brave For You' (Marfa Demo Version) music video directed by The xx.
Collaborative Efforts
Jamie xx, a member of The xx, has also created stunning solo remixes of the band’s songs. His remix of "On Hold" brought a fresh perspective to the track, with a video that pushed the boundaries of visual storytelling. Jamie xx’s solo work, characterized by innovative beats and unique visual elements, complements The xx’s music and expands their creative universe. His contributions highlight the band's versatility and willingness to explore new artistic territories.
Jamie xx's remix of The xx's 'On Hold' music video, directed by Alasdair McLellan.
Directors' Corner
The directors who have worked with The xx have played a crucial role in shaping their visual identity. Saam Farahmand, known for his minimalist yet powerful approach, laid the foundation with videos like "Islands." Young Replicant brought a surreal and dreamlike quality to "Chained," enhancing the band's emotional storytelling. Alasdair McLellan’s work on "On Hold" and "Say Something Loving" showcased a seamless blend of nostalgic and contemporary elements, creating visually stunning narratives. Each director’s unique vision and style have enriched The xx’s music videos, making them integral to the band's artistic expression.
Conclusion
The xx’s music videos are more than just visual accompaniments; they are essential to understanding the band's artistic expression. Each video offers a deeper connection to their music, providing a visual narrative that enhances the emotional impact of their songs. Dive into the full catalog on AltSounds.tv and immerse yourself in the visual and auditory journey that is The xx. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to their music, these videos offer a captivating experience that showcases the band’s creativity and vision.
