UK’s The xx brought their minimalistic brand of alternative pop for a sold-out show at the Singapore Indoor Stadium – a rare occurrence for an indie act – cementing their status as a touring force in the process. We recap 8 highlights from their electrifying show.
#1 An A+ Opening Act
Credit: Marcus Lin / Secret Sounds Asia
The xx’s opening act, rising Brit artist Sampha, performed one of the longest opening sets we’ve ever sat through. But his soulful jams calmed the fervent crowd and made waiting over an hour for the main act more than bearable. We even spotted several audience members Shazam-ing his tunes and getting lost in his music.
#2 Jamming Out To New Songs
Touring in support of their latest album I See You, ardent fans were delighted to lap up new hits such as ‘Lips’ and ‘I Dare You’. It was amazing to witness a stadium-full of people singing along perfectly!
#3 That Feeling Of Nostalgia
New music might’ve been the main draw, but the band’s nearly decade-long discography was not overlooked – classic anthems like ‘Islands’, ‘VCR’ and ‘Fiction’ drew excited gasps and cheers from the audience the instant their recognisable opening guitar rifts wafted through the speakers.
#4 Jamie XX’s solo
Credit: Dominic Phua / Secret Sounds Asia
The man behind the deck, Jamie XX took center stage mid-way through the set with a surprise performance of his solo track ‘Loud Places’, turning the buzz up a notch and the stadium into a rave party.
#5 Taking A Stand With Music
The band – never one to compromise their opinions on world issues – also proudly made a statement of love and equality with rainbow lights washing over the trio during a segment.
#6 Single And Loved
The xx might be renowned for their heart-aching love songs, but lead singer Oliver Sim made sure the intimacy was not lost among singletons, with a dedicated shout out and a reminder that he “could see each and every one of them”.
#7 Romy’s ‘Performance’
Credit: Marcus Lin / Secret Sounds Asia
While Oliver led most of the fan interaction, fellow lead vocalist Romy mesmerised throughout with her unwavering deliveries, perhaps displayed no better than on the near-a cappella high of ‘Performance’. A fitting song title for an immaculate moment of the night.
#8 The Fans, Who Turned Up The Show
Credit: Dominic Phua / Secret Sounds Asia
Credit: Marcus Lin / Secret Sounds Asia
If the band’s ability to draw a larger crowd over recent mainstream pop acts is not enough a testament to their faithful following, it’s their admirers’ proud displays of passion that really proved their cultural impact. Fans that flocked the stadium – aged anywhere between teenagers and married couples – donned t-shirts and tote bags adorned with the unmistakable “X” logo of the band, and mouthed every lyric religiously. And while there were no backup dancers, extravagant stage productions or even a video backdrop, The xx showed that all you needed was relatable music and heartfelt conversations to have an unforgettable gig.
Featured image: Marcus Lin / Secret Sounds Asia
What The xx tune do you rock out to? Share your favourites in the comment section!
More related stories: There Are Over 60 Reasons Why You Need To Watch Charli XCX’s New Video, Rihanna, Harry Styles And Other Pop Stars Turned Actors, Falling Feathers Might Just Be Singapore’s Next Biggest Popstar
