X marks the spot.

Laura was right, it takes 3 full listens for the XX to sink in.

On an album where one song doesn't differ that much from the next, it takes that long for a favourite song to stand out. But then several do at the same time.

The debut album for the XX - imaginatively titled "XX" - is an exercise in melancholy down-beat electro pop. Think Everything But The Girl, without the depression.

The first songs released from the album didn't make it onto my favourites list, though the very excellent "Crystalised" does rate a mention. My personal pick of the bunch was just released as a single this month.

"VCR" (what is this band and names?) is an infectious poppy little love song, another 80's throwback, but these aren't your flouro glitter kids, this lot are so black they'd give Depeche Mode a run for their money. And though i doubt these guys actually have used a VCR as anything more than a cultural reference, there's something cute singing about it anyway. The opening refrain brings a childlike simplicity to this song that reminds me of all the best bits of a wonderful Scottish band called Looper. But as it's unlikely you know who they are, that serves as a rather crap reference.

But then, is it all about reference and me showing you how clever i am, or about you exploring some new music?

Have a listen, i can almost guarantee you'll not forget the name.

davey