The xx in Basel - 18 February 2017

Being packed into a tram like sardines is akin to getting the tube on a daily basis in London. However, on the evening of 18th February, getting the tram to St. Jakobshalle meant sharing space with about 7000 concertgoers on their way to see British trio The xx. The mood in the packed tram was electric, like the band's new sound. The tram was charged with the chatter of friends and couples excited to see what the indie pop group would offer.

This was The xx's first visit to Basel, having toured steadily since their rise to award-winning fame in 2009 with their eponymous debut album and follow-up album Coexist.

The xx were supported by Kelela from the USA, a singer with a strong soothing voice who has a cool line in electronica-backed R'n'B. The already packed arena welcomed Kelela warmly and it was evident from her performance that she could feel the love in the room.

We were first introduced to The xx via a purple haze of smoke and light. Standing on stage in their trademark black attire, Romy Madley Croft, Oliver Sim and beats master Jamie Smith lured us into their tranquil new song Say Something Loving. We were drawn into the heavy tone of the keyboards, and the two vocals gently introduced us to The xx's newest album I See You.

What followed over the next 1,5 hours was quiet yet clubby music underscored by an impressive light show, enhanced by the moving mirrored panels that reflected the crowd and the band infinitely, lending to the idea that the band and the crowd were one - we were in this together.

I See You has been receiving generous radio play and, despite it being released only a month ago, has clearly captivated fans - apparent from the crowd singing along and swaying to the music. The new album has moved away from the band's previous strict confines of indie pop and incorporates all three of the band member's talents, giving it that electronica vibe.

The album was played live almost in its entirety. Jamie Smith's solo music influence as Jamie xx was evident. Smith showed us what he is capable of and left us wanting more.

Bassist Sim was animated on stage and moved to the beat in every song. Swinging his bass and body, he was a delight to watch, as well as making it all the more fun for us to join in with the dancing. Madley Croft matched him beat for beat.

The xx did not disappoint and played their well-known and award-winning hits: Islands, VCR, Angels and Intro, which saw a few lighters come out and being waved - the international salute to great songs and a successful band.

Sim and Madley Croft had chemistry on stage and clearly enjoyed performing for the crowd, even if, in Sim's words, being up there was still "terrifying".

The determination of the band to provide beautiful music resonated with many in Basel. When the audience wouldn't stop clapping and cheering after one particularly lovely rendition, Sim, Madley Croft and Smith stood on stage laughing, dazzled by the crowd's reaction. The band have come a long way since their first album and their shy public personas and now seem to be blossoming as performers, one song at a time.

- Suzi Lyon

Setlist:

Say Something Loving

Crystalised

Islands

Lips

Brave For You

Basic Space

Too Good

Infinity

VCR

Dangerous

I Dare You

A Violent Noise

Fiction

Shelter

Loud Places

On Hold

Intro

Angels

(Source: setlist.fm)

More photos by Anna Wirz on Flickr.