The xx return to stage after 8 years with Mexico City debut

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The xx shocked fans and stunned the music world last weekend. The indie trio made their triumphant return to the live stage after eight years apart with three sold-out shows at Mexico City’s Pepsi Center WTC. Opening with their classic “Crystalised,” they performed a 19-song career-spanning set that marked the beginning of their “next chapter.”

🔥 Quick Facts

  • First Shows: April 3-5, 2026 in Mexico City marked their first live performances as a trio in eight years
  • Sold-Out Venue: All three shows at Pepsi Center WTC sold out, holding 8,000 capacity
  • Epic Setlist: The trio performed 19 songs spanning solo projects and their entire group catalog
  • New Album: The band has been in the studio since 2023 working on their fourth studio album

Three Nights of Pure Nostalgia in Mexico City

The xx opened their grand reunion with a masterclass in emotional depth and intimate staging. Romy Madley Croft, Oliver Sim, and Jamie Smith performed against a hazy, dark backdrop that perfectly captured the band’s signature minimalist aesthetic. The opening track “Crystalised” immediately transported fans back to their landmark 2009 debut album, touching off waves of recognition among the devoted crowd.

All three shows on April 3rd, 4th, and 5th were completely sold out at the 8,000-capacity venue. The band drew deeply from their discography, with songs from 2009’s xx, 2012’s Coexist, and 2018’s I See You. This career-survey approach proved that despite their years apart, their classic material remains universally beloved by global audiences.

A Rare 19-Song Journey Across Group and Solo Work

The 19-song setlist revealed the band’s intention to honor every creative chapter since their split. Each member received dedicated solo spotlights, with Jamie xx earning the most extensive showcase. Highlights included his collaborations “I’ll Take Care of U” with Gil Scott-Heron, “Loud Places,” and the brand-new “Waited All Night,” which features both bandmates.

Romy performed “Enjoy Your Life” from her solo repertoire, while Oliver Sim contributed “GMT.” The setlist closed with an emotional final track “Infinity,” bookending an evening of pure musical intimacy that left fans overwhelmed with emotion and gratitude for the reunion.

Complete Mexico City Setlist

Song Title Source/Type
Crystalised, Say Something Loving, Islands, Angels xx (2009 debut album)
I’ll Take Care of U, Loud Places, Waited All Night Jamie xx solo work
Enjoy Your Life, GMT, I Dare You, On Hold Romy and Oliver solo tracks
Intro, Night Time, Sunset, Infinity Band catalog classics and new premiere

“After nearly eight years away, the trio of Romy, Oliver, and Jamie have announced their grand return, signaling the start of a new chapter for the band.”

— According to NME, on the band’s historic reunion announcement

What’s Coming Next: New Album and Global Festival Circuit

The xx have already revealed plans for an explosive 2026 with Coachella performances scheduled for both April 10-12 and April 17-19. Major festival bookings include headlining slots at Lollapalooza, Primavera Sound Barcelona, and Outside Lands. More tour dates continue to be announced as momentum builds from their triumphant Mexican debut.

Even more exciting, the band has been in active pre-production on their fourth studio album since early 2023. The trio shared studio footage in March 2025, confirming they’re recording new material. Industry insiders suggest the album could arrive later in 2026, making these Mexico City shows just the opening salvo of a major creative campaign.

Will The xx’s New Album Recapture the Minimalist Genius That Made Them Icons?

The real question dominating fan forums and music publications is whether their fourth album will match the critical and commercial success of their first three records. The xx fundamentally changed the indie landscape with their whisper-quiet production, dual vocals, and emotional restraint. Eight years is a long time away from recording as a full trio, but their Mexico City performances suggest they’ve rediscovered their chemistry and creative spark.

Singer Romy stated before the shows that the reunion represents “a healthy break” that allowed all three members to “learn new skills, get new musical ideas and experiences.” That maturity and growth could be precisely what fans need to hear, especially in an era of increasingly digital and oversaturated music production.

Sources

  • Pitchfork – Complete setlist and detailed coverage of The xx’s Mexico City return
  • NME – Official announcement and reunion details for The xx comeback gig
  • Consequence – Setlist, video footage, and live performance reporting from Pepsi Center

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