The xx - Coexist (CD, Vinyl LP)

Well well well. I knew I was right about these being something special like, but I never expected their post-modern take on the sensitive indie-soul of Everything But The Girl to be quite the world-beater it has been. Then again the vocalistic dynamic between the girl Romy and the boy Oli is one of the most distinctive, warm and affecting pairings in contemporary Western popular music, this is why they're a global phenomenon, not just a domestic concern. With second guitarist Baria now departed all you've got to do is add beats don du jour Jamie xx (nee Smith) to the cauldron then you're laughing. He hardly did anything on the last album in comparison to how boldly he's sculpted the minimal beats, textures and bright aural wallpaper for this second major outing

Complaints so far from arsicles (sic) I've perused have surmised that, generally, the songs comprising 'Coexist' aren't as strong as on 'xx'. In other words they're supposedly not "radio gold" like many featured on the last album but my impression on second listen is of a greatly mature, progressive and dynamic approach with a noticeable emphasis on crisp electronic technique, fresh subtle grooves, a more beat-driven countenance and increased variation in style without remotely abandoning any of the idiosyncratic essence of their gorgeous, spangled and languid début.

I dare say the ideas here are more spirited and adventurous, even if the tunes aren't so immediately memorable or catchy...that sad, smoky 'n' chiming cinematic atmosphere you all love is here in spades and they're actually far too talented and unique to offer up anything approaching a duffer after all that attention. I'm totally charmed to buggery all over again, especially by the ever-impressive quality of the M/F duetting and warmth/depth of the production. I say just buy it if you loved the first one, fuck the critics, ignore them, they are total idiots and know jack shit...this is quite excellent! xx