The xx: NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert

It's easy to think of The xx as a fashionable band: Its members have a sleek all-in-black look, its typography and cover art is coolly and distinctively styled, and the group itself has been showered with validation, including Britain's 2010 Mercury Prize. But beneath all that tightly controlled image-making lays music that's raw and vulnerable; shy, worried tentativeness is wired into a sound that shimmers powerfully, but remains as fragile and delicate as a soap bubble.
The xx's second album, Coexist, came out last fall, and it plays like a series of tensely lovely interludes, each building to a climax that never arrives. Plopped in front of Bob Boilen's desk and asked to play a few songs from the record, singer-guitarist Romy Madley Croft and singer-bassist Oliver Sim have reason to look slightly ill-at-ease: The setting and band configuration robs them of cover. No beats from member Jamie Smith, who opted to hang back at the hotel; no shroud of darkness or bright lights pointed outward to blunt the crowd's stares. Throughout their characteristically compact seven-minute performance, Croft and Sim avoid eye contact, as they visibly try to ignore the huge throng and cameras positioned maybe 10 feet away from them.
What comes out of their performance is not just beauty, but humanity - the sense that, in all of The xx's songs, all the calm chilliness in the world can't quite contain an exposed heart.
Set List
• "Angels"
• "Sunset"
Credits
Producer: Bob Boilen; Editor: Denise DeBelius; Audio Engineer: Kevin Wait; Videographers: Becky Lettenberger, Claire O'Neill, Maggie Starbard

[@Space-Glitter]

bring them back and have them do a longer tiny desk, please!!!! this is so beautiful.

[@cuilleremagiq]

I'm here for this elongated desk segment 🙌🏽

[@GoldEighteen]

I'm convinced they don't even edit their studio recordings. Their live sound is unreal.

[@Onedirection119897]

Probaly the most intense, and calmest band that i've heard. Their voices create such a unique sound. It all just molds together perfectly.

[@LeeH688]

I love the reason that they sound like this is that in their earliest days as a band they practiced in a garage in a residential area so they had to keep the noise down.

[@romy3449]

Absolutely agree!

[@adeergg]

the xx and daughter both give me that vibe. powerful but soft.

[@MrAtheismo]

I'm always amazed by her voice that I forget that Oliver sings as well. And then when he does it's so surprising and so good.

[@parshan08]

The XX - Coexist is the most incredible album I've heard in my life; and I've listened to a lot of music in every genre. Absolute masterpiece.

[@Project4four]

Agreed

[@cyntheticlove]

Yes.

[@capmendonca]

Sigur rós albums are also unreal. 👌

[@KayGeee86]

And that makes you an expert or what? 😅

[@FAC321]

yes bit have you heard "The Muppet Show - Original Soundtrack 1977 (Japanese edit) "? , if not then i think you may reevaluate your choice

[@missmyoldhandle24]

it's so rare that musicians sounds as perfect live as they do recorded... This just made my day!!!

[@BonhamsBongo]

These guys seem made to perform together - they compliment each other so perfectly well. I love the chilled moody sound of XX - in a musical world where its increasingly difficult to sound original and effortless, they manage.

[@pauldragos8550]

I finally find this after 7 years and it's only 6 minutes. My jaw actually dropped. Thank you The xx for always doing your thing.

[@annaeeee7516]

I had never come across this video and it's just what I needed today 😊

[@k-isfor-kristina]

Jesus Christ she sounds just like the recorded version. That's incredible.

[@JustCrowe1]

One of the things they said in an anniversary interview was that when they wrote their first album, one of their biggest concerns was keeping the music simple enough that it did in fact sound the same live, they’d be happy to know you felt this way 😏

[@ashleyholder4892]

It did not sound like a tiny desk at first haha

[@YAHprophetic]

I'm so late bc whennnnn😂🎉❤

[@BuzziMuzzi]

I just kind of noticed how important music is for me. This kind of music just makes me feel so alive. I love it.

[@RBlur]

"in all of The xx's songs, all the calm chilliness in the world can't quite contain an exposed heart." it's the perfect description. They penetrate my heart and my soul like nothing else!! Their voices and songs are so pure they make me want to cry whenever I listen to them

[@brdmusicofficial]

thier simplicity is so so so beautiful, we should have more of this kind of real, sensitive & minimalistic music today

[@zakonodavac]

They sound just like on track ...

[@abdullabdulla4075]

zakonodavac ن😦😕😉😆😅😡😑😦🚱♈♌♈سسط

[@abdullabdulla4075]

zakonodavac طقظجفطج😃😐

[@alexesteves6013]

That's what they say, you only can tell how great an artist is when they sound/perform the same vocal quality as live or as well on track

[@SilentC0sm0s]

Their music hits me hard... especially angels... i just want to cry

[@squallleonhart3061]

SilentC0sm0s I like the music to but i don´t want to cry. But i am Squall Leonhart i have no feelings.

[@SilentC0sm0s]

Squall Leonhart especially Squall has alot of feelings :P

[@xXBambiHuntXx]

SilentC0sm0s Angels reminds me of a dog I had who passed 2 years ago. Every time I listen to it I feel her around me.

[@zimzimzalabim]

I know right? That song came out at the time I was actually falling for someone. And it takes me back to all those nights in a dark rooms, just talking and seeing myself fall in love. It didn't work out but I am glad I can relive that moment through this wonderful song.

[@DearReaderReadAloud]

Both of their voices are so. so. golden. I love watching them play. Her facial expressions are amazing to watch at some of the most emotional parts of the song. Also! If you listen to this song with earbuds, you can hear the music moving back and forth between your ears.

[@aliciamartinez3001]

Seriously you guys are just so therapeutic for me.. Its more than just the beautiful melody of your music and vocals. Its the beautiful energy that transpires in that room so strong that it shows not only on camera but that beautiful energy is so strong that it moves with time and can be felt anywhere in the world.

[@vancedstone]

Wow her voice is so beutiful. It doesn't look like she's even trying it just comes out like that. Simply amazing!

[@ikeownscharizards]

Ah I need them to drop the new album now, can't wait to hear their sound again.

[@fernfernisfernie]

Gosh her voice is just perfection

[@aTTGallardo]

Gosh, his is, as well..

[@paulduffy4585]

Isn't it.

[@orquito7710]

Nechtan Mac Collbran it is

[@wisausnk]

💯

[@masonshappley122]

Oliver has one of the greatest natural voices I've ever heard. I love it so much. He's tied with sameer ghadia (I think that's how you spell it) as my favorite male voice

[@blairstevenson6203]

I would give anything to see these two perform together again. One last time

[@indecisiveloser]

5:33 and onward, the way Oliver runs his hand through his hair. Man, I haven't crushed this hard in a long while.

[@mrss_foster]

I love how their voices are just so perfect they don't need auto-tune

[@danielasouza6535]

Ft

[@mrss_foster]

daniela souza?

[@joeyrhorror]

...As in most artist that are not in the popular category?

[@origamigek]

Why am I kind of frustrated to hear this? Singers are supposed to sing without auto-tune. Why would anyone assume most songs have been tuned like that? It's like assuming all pictures of paintings have been shopped to make the painting look better.

[@mrss_foster]

ᴠᴧᴨᴛᴧᴃᴌᴧcᴋ You have the rights to feel and say how you feel. I took a moment to appreciate their beautiful voices and I really didn't mean to say anything mean. I make my judgment based on what I've heard or seen. I see no difference in their performances and in most popular artist I do. And even if the voice isn't perfect or beautiful why tune it...Just being natural with imperfections is beauty.

[@wisausnk]

It’s unbelievable how good a performance can be if the chemistry between the singers is 💯 never have I feel that much honesty in Musik like between that two 💚

[@xXBambiHuntXx]

I have been listening to The XX for over 5 years now, and they are one of the only bands that I can sing every word of every song in time with every chord. Guess they just speak to me.

[@javierthompson1893]

WDGAF

[@aquadee91]

Same 😊

[@BrandyJButts]

Same girl same

[@ladypopularr]

SAME

[@molkikun1]

Same! It's the only band I've made the effort to buy their albums and can actually listen to them on a daily basis without getting tired.

[@MrAlekoy]

I had all NPR TD-concerts rolling in the background whilst trying to fix something, and suddenly this comes on, I had to put down my tools and just listen,it was THAT awesome, perfect live performance...

[@meyloose1013]

I started listening to the xx 10 years ago when I first heard islands and intro on Pandora and was instantly enamored and hooked. I got my friend into them and she and I went to see them in fall of 2010 in Philly, but they were also doing this after party type thing with the tour, so Jamie was dj’ing at this club - I had the fortune of meeting Romy and Oliver, and they were exactly like this in person. So amazing.

[@107amanda1]

the lyrics are just so raw for lack of better words really refreshing

[@sergiopinto514]

Simplicity is powerful... I saw them live, and it was one of the most emotional concerts I've ever attended...

[@MrJERRY551]

I love how ridiculously simple the music is. It's insane how something so brilliant can come out of something so...basic.

[@Daniel_Addy]

The spaces between notes are masterful

[@deanthornby2026]

Nothing simple about making music like this ... To make the gap as important at the notes around it is perfection

[@deanthornby2026]

​@@Daniel_Addy talking of timing ....how crazy is that ...we wrote pretty much the same thing at the same time ...

[@deanthornby2026]

​@@Daniel_Addy ok we thought the same not wrote it ....but mad tho ...have a good day

[@KayGeee86]

It's all about emotions

[@JustReadable]

Amazing, how many great bands I discovered via NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert. Thank you NPR Music. Thank you very much !

[@beatsbykana]

his leaning the whole time is a mood

[@gordospeti]

I keep coming back to hear this short performance again and again! Very nice music!

[@remyparys9264]

Just amazing... just plain amazing. Love every note, every word... incredibly sensitive and intense music.

[@hespedro]

7 years later this still makes me cry ily xx

[@victorcantoran9631]

Such a lovely tone of a voice that compliments such beautiful melodic sounds. This type of setting fits them perfectly

[@fredytexis1]

Still here after so long. Still hits so hard.

[@srduncanbyu]

their voices at other times have seemed to err on the flat side. but here they are immaculate. it's incredible. what a gem

[@comreality]

they've known each other since they were 3. And she was the first person he ever sang in front of.... and he was so shy, so they sang together. ^_^ they may not be together, but they are freaking adorable!

[@todddavis240]

Thank you NPR for turning me onto the xx! June 4th Uptown theater in Kansas City MO What an evening with the xx, uptown is about as intimate as it gets. Hope to see you there. Peace&Love

[@youtubeyoutubeyoutube9961]

Those two have the best connection onstage and together, really. Great musicians.

[@bktrk3335]

Wow. This has got to be one of the most genuinely moving live performances I've ever witnessed

[@dolcedolente]

I love all the space . . . so much said in between what is said . . . just gorgeous. Melts me.

[@cupcaakes]

They literally sound like angels! Love that song btw

[@lardog112]

Guitar work reminds me of the Cure. Very nice smooth transitions. Like it a lot.

[@elina5]

How can something so simple transmit so much? ...Ahh the beauty of The XX

[@ayceeren]

I keep coming back to this video.

[@colleen.bae144]

same. for many many years now

[@KiichiIsanu]

The close-ups on Oliver that show him generating vibrato (neck quivering) is really cool. Also reminds me faintly of a pelican.

[@boonehouston]

I was amazed with her voice and still am, but when that man opened his mouth angels flew out.

[@acadiasummons5178]

this makes me feel real

[@deluds28]

Amazing voice, so quiet and powerful

[@samanthagonzalez5475]

BRING THEM BACK!!! BUT ALSO WITH JAMIE XX!! AND ALSO HAVE THEM PLAY MORE THAN 2 SONGS!!

[@akarnjanakit3848]

This evokes emotions of a wide range of beautiful bonds, emitting waves of luminous energies! The vibrations of sound and composition complete the essentials that brings balance to the whimsical spirit, gracefully dancing on the edge of acceptance and understanding. It reveals the delicate nature of human behaviors and emotions Thank you so much for this!

[@Kazikox]

They really are amazing

[@sheilajune9677]

A masterpiece 🎵🧡🎶 so soulful and ill never get tired of their music . This music touches me in a way I cannot explain. Takes me to another time and place💜 this gave me chills. These two songs Angels and Sunset are some of my favorites by xx 🎵🧡🫶 im so in love their music ❤ their voices are sooooo beautiful and ethereal . I 1st stumbled upon their music by accidentally hearing Angels in the car one day and ever since i always go back to their music 🎶 i was about 17 or 18 when i discovered their amazing music The song "Angels" 🧡🪽💕❤️‍🔥🫶🌹👏☺️☀️🎵 was the very 1st song i ever heard by them and fell in love with their music ever since. Sunset 🧡🫶 2:53 sunset is one of my top favorites its sooo good " i saw you again it felt like we had never met its like the sunset in your eyes.. What have you done with the one I love? When i look into your eyes i see no surprise I always thought it was a shame that we had to play these games it felt like you really knew me now its like you see through me 🎶🌌💛💖 When i see you again stay one step away.. When i see you again and im greeted as a friend it is understood that we did all we could I always thought it was sad that we act like strangers After all that we had we act like we had never met" 😍 their music touches me in a way no other music ever has. Their music is so unique 🔥🥺 and I love that. I will never get tired of listening to their music. Their voices are out of this world - ethereal ✨️ and sooo lovely to listen to

[@ydasda4210]

Goodness, he's such a papi. Their musical style and voices are so enjoyable. Bravo!!!!!!!!!

[@Casp0r]

Such a peaceful and magic art they both do! Awesome gig 2:55 "~Oh so sad! ;( have to wipe away that tear~"

[@musiclife5158]

Love this song. I got it on repeat for the next 10 years.

[@wendymorgan-priest7105]

This set just makes me like them even more

[@karaswanson3138]

still listening...

[@izalman]

Absolutely superb.. how can such simple music sound so amazing..

[@IngridTheViking]

This was so chill, I forgot I was listening to music.

[@022rty]

Incredible duet these two

[@gabrielmaroto18]

Being as in love with the xx as I am!

[@ethanksiazek5548]

Such a cool vibe. Makes me feel like kicking it with myself.

[@todddavis240]

Love love love The xx, Hauntingly beautiful sullen verb. Really Awesome xx. Peace

[@andreyderisio4390]

Beautiful Voice!

[@JiMpAgE69]

the description on this video is the best written description i've ever read also the xx are incredible, its almost haunting

[@martinhockings2326]

They make it look so easy, perfection...

[@pamplbaumann6259]

so beautiful voices and lyrics...

[@jayykayyr3919]

The description of this video. *as fragile and delicate as a soap bubble* Genius!

[@brianjgilbert]

Wow. amazing vocals and minimalist sounds. XX rocks!

[@Montano76]

I like the sound of the guitars so mellow and relaxing

[@jenbo327]

Sigue siendo uno de mis tiny desk favoritos. ❤

[@JonahAberle]

Exceptional work once again Kevin Wait. SOUNDS SO SO GOOD. Even better than their studio album.

[@Raincloud2332]

Honestly my favorite band. They're so talented i wish they got the recognition they deserve.

[@cgomezny153]

Ahhh.... so many memories, so many emotional times I've had listening to the Xx. I hope she remembers when she listens to them too. ❤❤

[@fredytexis1]

Still makes me feel the same as the first time that Ive heard. Timeless.

[@desiresur8]

i would love to hear their music live. great music guys, thanks

[@romy3449]

I feel like crying or something when looking at this. It's so beautiful.

[@nuriasanz60]

I like so much!!! From Spain, Congratulations!!!!!

[@dojaneko179]

It's been 8 years,,, Things have changed so much. It's a bit pain to watch and listen to this song but it cures my heart.

[@plasticbudgie]

i love her morrissey chin. seriously how can they sound like a studio recording such talent.

[@christinecassidy2689]

So gentle and tender. Can't wait to see them at Radio City Music Hall in September.

[@stevecroc123noxbmx3]

No words to explain this feeling, just......., Intensely hanging onto every breath, every word, every note

[@RulfusTheBear]

NPR and all of it's programing deserves more recognition. I suppose most NPR listiners are as well rounded as the segments they offer. Thank you.

[@EvanKnight1]

I just can't believe how good this sounds.

[@Jsantii]

the way he looks at her on 2:40 oh my god

[@samyavellani6111]

omg you are so right!

[@UpdoggWhattt]

If you're implying it's something sexual between them, sorry to burst that bubble; she's gay.

[@Jsantii]

ThatUncutRaw I know she is a lesbian lol. I'm just saying the way he looked at her was nice.

[@UpdoggWhattt]

spooky cupcakes Yeah, it was intense.

[@puzz88]

oh man didnt even realize that, so cute

[@vicegirlsusa]

Their music is absolutely perfect for a tiny desk concert. Love it!

[@dastafford]

I love her voice. Beautiful.

[@serjoshua]

this badly needed an update with Jamie so that they could play more songs, like a 10-song set list at the least hehe

[@righthereandnow]

No words. Thank you, xx and NPR.

[@ambivalent1]

The top 3 voices I can say that I wish I had! 😍 So powerful, magical, soothing and hypnotic

[@HIPPIETHUG92109]

Simply beautiful perfection! Why must we make it so complex.

[@Max-bf6tl]

This is beautiful till this day and forever on

[@somethingswicked]

Look how he looks up at her at 2:41 and smiles. I feel like I just looked in on the greatest love story of music.

[@onlysosa]

Me hubiera encantado escuchar este mismo performance junto con los beats de Jamie xx. Y si además agregaran Crystalised al setlist los amaría aún mucho más! Cheers from México (;

[@fridgemagnet]

She has a nervousness and vulnerability that remind me of a young Robert Smith.

[@Mslaralinda]

That's funny

[@missmyoldhandle24]

How can anyone criticism even a second of this?? It's perfection!

[@jpvanstaden2595]

Beautiful beautiful. My favourite band ever. Definitely in my top 5