Photo by Jamie-James Medina

“Angels,” the new track from The xx was released in July, and was one of the most eagerly anticipated singles of 2012 in the world of alternative music. And by golly was it worth the wait! A haunting melody sends into orbit 3 minutes of blissfully recognizable xx sound. As the melody continues, a timid yet vital bass kicks in for Romy’s first line, “Light reflects from your shadow, it is more than I thought could exist.” And it’s settled: you’ve fallen back in love with The xx just as you were at their debut album’s release back in August of 2009.

This time around the band seems to have come out of their somber shells a little (musically of course, they’re still all about the gothic clothing). They seem no longer to be afraid of being direct and honest with the listener, coming across as vulnerable in the process. This is a mature band, undeniably returning with their distinct sound coupled with rejuvenating lyrical content, showing that there is more to them than their dark appearance and dark sound.

“Angels” is a relieving and encouraging squeeze of the shoulders, confirming that we should be getting excited for Coexist’s release in early September.

Watch a live performance of “Angels”