Nine years after the release of his critically acclaimed debut album In Colour, Jamie xx makes his much-anticipated return with In Waves, a project shaped during the global pandemic. His debut was hailed as one of the most significant records of the 2010s, noted for its ability to merge contrasting emotions—joy and sorrow, connection and solitude. With In Waves, Jamie xx re-emerges as a refined artist, offering a more introspective and intricate body of work.
The landscape has changed dramatically since Jamie’s last solo release. In the years since, the world has witnessed political upheaval, economic shifts, and the profound impact of a global pandemic. It was during these turbulent times that Jamie xx, grounded from his usual international DJ circuits, began crafting this new album. Unlike other artists who quickly released pandemic-inspired works, Jamie took his time, meticulously shaping and refining each track.
In Waves is a collaborative effort featuring contributions from some of the most exciting names in contemporary music. His bandmates from The xx, Romy and Oliver Sim, lend their voices to the nostalgic, UK garage-inspired track “Waited All Night.” Meanwhile, Australian dance icons The Avalanches infuse energy into the pulsating “All You Children.” The album’s vibrant moments are further elevated by Robyn, whose commanding presence lights up the disco-driven “Life.” Honey Dijon’s collaboration on “Baddy on the Floor” brings a lively house rhythm, making it one of the album’s standout dance tracks.
Though filled with energetic moments, In Waves carries a reflective tone, with spoken-word segments adding a contemplative layer to the music. It’s a more somber and complex album than In Colour, echoing the uncertainty of the times in which it was made. Yet, beneath the reflective mood lies Jamie xx’s signature focus on the universal joy of the dancefloor. He’s crafted a sound that, while nuanced, still captures the timeless appeal of club culture.
Released on September 20, 2024, through Young, In Waves highlights Jamie xx‘s perfectionist tendencies without feeling overly polished or restrained. The album manages to remain both precise and full of life, balancing thoughtful composition with energizing beats. Tracks like “Breather” stand out with their mechanical, spoken-word elements, while “Wanna” uses soaring vocal samples to set a bold tone from the start. The gentle piano notes on “The Feeling I Get From You” bring a softer touch to the record, offering a moment of emotional clarity.
With In Waves, Jamie xx proves that after nearly a decade away, his music continues to evolve, staying both fresh and deeply resonant. This is dance music that connects on an emotional level, showing once again why Jamie xx remains a key figure in modern electronic music.
