Islands

The xx

About Islands

"Islands" is a song recorded by English indie pop band The xx for their self-titled debut studio album. Written by band-members Jamie Smith, Oliver Sim, Romy Madley Croft and then-member Baria Qureshi, "Islands" is a dark and simple indie pop track. It also contains influences from house music and features instrumentation from guitars and synthesizers. Croft and Sim, who provided vocals in the track, sing about themes related to loyalty and love. "Islands" was released on 26 October 2009 as the third single from the album by Young Turks in 7-inch single and digital download formats. In March 2010, the song was re-released as a 12-inch single. Critically well received, "Islands" was praised for its melody and the vocal performances of Croft and Sim. It was later ranked at number 28 on NME magazine's list of the "150 Best Tracks of the Past 15 Years". The song became the band's highest peaking single in the United Kingdom after it reached number 34 on the UK Singles Chart. It also peaked at number three on the UK Indie Chart. An accompanying music video for "Islands" was directed by Saam Farahmand, and consists of numerous tracking shots that show six dancers performing a dance routine around the members of the band. Every different shot features a slight change in the expression, gestures, and movement of the dancers and band-members. Critics complimented the concept of the video, and felt it was representative of The xx's musical style. The band performed the song live at the iTunes Festival in 2010 and it was also included on the set list of their 2010 and 2013 tour. 


Year:
2009
2:40
98 

 Become A Better Singer In Only 30 Days, With Easy Video Lessons!

I don't have to leave anymore
What I have is right here
Spend my nights and days before
Searching the world for what's right here

Underneath and unexplored
Islands and cities I have looked
Here I saw
Something I couldn't over look

I am yours now
So now I don't ever have to leave
I've been found out
So now I'll never explore

See what I've done
That bridge is on fire
Going back to where I've been
I'm froze by desire
No need to leave

Where would I be
IF this were to go under
It's a risk I'd take
I'm froze by desire
As if a choice I'd make

And I am yours now
So now I don't ever have to leave
I've been found out
So now I'll never explore

So now I'll never explore

 Become A Better Singer In Only 30 Days, With Easy Video Lessons!


The xx

The xx are an English indie pop band, formed in London in 2008. The group released their debut album, xx in August 2009. The album ranked highly on many best of 2009 lists, placing number one on the list compiled by The Guardian and second for NME. In 2010, the band won the Mercury Music Prize for their debut album. Their second album, Coexist, was released on 10 September 2012. more »

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Written by: BARIA QURESHI, JAMES THOMAS SMITH, OLIVER DAVID SIM, ROMY ANNA MADLEY CROFT

Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


11 facts about this song

Composition
"Islands" is a multi-instrumental composition with an R&B influenced style of beat and syncopated guitar work. It features a pleasant blend of contemporary pop and neo-soul influences that contribute to an overall stylistically eclectic piece.
Album Placement
The song made its debut in 2009 as part of The xx's self-titled studio album.
Chart Performance
"Islands" successfully landed on several music charts internationally, including the UK Singles Chart where it ranked as high as #34.
Music Video
The song's unique music video choreographically represents the repetitive nature of relationships, with nearly identical scenes playing over and over, only slight differences.
Critical Reception
"Islands" was highly acclaimed by many critics. The song was praised for its simplicity and emotional depth.
Influence
The song, in line with the album, contributed to establishing The xx's distinctive minimalist and introspective style which characterizes much of their music.
Songwriter
Members Romy Madley Croft, Oliver Sim, and Jamie Smith share songwriting credits for "Islands."
Cover Versions
Various artists have covered "Islands," including Shakira, highlighting the song's wide-reaching influence in the music industry.
Live Performances
"Islands" remains a staple in The xx's live performances, often accompanied by visually stunning lighting and stage effects.
Festival Performances
The track was performed at several high-profile music festivals, including the prestigious Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival and Primavera Sound in Barcelona.
In Popular Media
"Islands" featured in several TV series, including Grey's Anatomy, Person of Interest, and in video games like FIFA 11.

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