The xx. A group of friends from South London who share a love for music and a propensity for fashion in the colour of black: black attire, footwear, and accessories. Black, the safe, default colour. Nothing original about it. Just unassuming, boring, and drab.

What’s in the colour black? Black is the lack of all colours of light. Black is the colour that does not emit or reflect light in any part of the visible spectrum. Black is usually indicative of a lack of substance or style. Capital BORING. Right? Wrong.

With The xx, what you see is not necessarily what you get. We live in a time where we are inundated by loud colours and in-your-face patterns to garner attention so that the world can see a screaming identity. The xx seem to prefer to blend in with the shadows, so that you have to search and look beyond the black façade. Dare to come a little closer and see what is intangible to the eyes, and only truly visible on a visceral and aural level. Black is a spectrum that is made up of textures, moods, layers, and mystery. Black can be more honest than white, and is certainly more intimate because you have to be within close proximity for its secrets to be revealed.

The xx album is like a luxe black velour jacket or dress. From a distance, it’s just a plain outfit. Upon closer inspection, by way of touch, you now “see” or feel the luxurious soulful texture. Have a listen, and be enveloped by a vibrant noir tonality. The personality behind the garment gives depth and character to a black outfit. Colour, in and of itself, is not substance, but substance can be very colourful if you look carefully.

Perhaps, once again, black is the new black. Applied in the right fashion, black yields shades and hues that are sleek, sexy, brooding, and timeless. The band’s clothing may be achromatic; their music is anything but. And not unlike the colour black, their debut album is an instant classic. Get close enough to hear their music and you will be rewarded with an intimacy that is imperceptible from afar. The xx. The unknowns. Like kisses in the dark.

:: Interview with Romy Madley Croft of The xx

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