10 Best Self-Titled Rock Albums Of All Time
8. The Xx (2009)
The xx's new wave approach to modern R&B, made an instant impression on music fans. The infectious simplicity of their sound was a refreshing change in a world where pop-centric indie music dominated.
Subtle but substantial guitar lines, and thrumming bass melodies, carve out a uniquely atmospheric mood. It isn't quite sombre, but you can't describe it as joyous, either. It rests somewhere in the realm of reflective and introspective comfort. Intro, Crystalised and Islands, are all tracks that no 'chill-out' playlist should be without.
Both the vocal and instrumental performances are defined by their sparseness. The lack of instrumental crowding draws focus to the driving rhythm and infectious melodies. Romy Madley Croft and Oliver Sim extended this approach to their vocal performances, contributing to the ambient nature of the album. And let's not forget, Jamie xx's contribution. He produced the record to such a fine degree, that despite its simplicity it still feels incredibly rich.
Sure, this album made it impossible to attend a house party without having to listen to someone pluck Intro, on a badly tuned guitar... , but it was a small price to pay.