Jamie xx's second studio LP In Waves, released on September 20, 2024 via Young Records, marks a triumphant return for the English producer nearly a decade after his acclaimed debut In Colour (2015). This sophomore effort is a vibrant exploration of dance music's emotional and communal aspects, blending introspection with euphoria. In Waves showcases Jamie xx's collaborative spirit, featuring contributions from notable artists such as Honey Dijon, Robyn, Romy, Oliver Sim, Kelsey Lu, John Glacier, Panda Bear, The Avalanches, and Oona Doherty. 

The album's creation spanned four years, beginning in 2019. Jamie xx described the process as navigating "waves that we have all experienced together and alone," aiming to craft music that is simultaneously fun, joyful, and introspective. Drawing inspiration from his vinyl collection during the COVID-19 pandemic, he incorporated a rich tapestry of samples–including elements from Double 99's "RipGroove" and Tina Moore's "Never Gonna Let You Go" in the opening track "Wanna."

In Waves delves into various dance music genres, including UK garage, house, disco, and techno. Tracks like "Baddy on the Floor" featuring Honey Dijon and "Life" featuring Robyn exemplify the album's club-ready energy. In Waves is also Jamie’s first LP to receive an immersive mix. Though the Dolby Atmos version of the album has been accessible via streaming services for some time, fans can now purchase it as a hi-res digital download in the IAA shop!

The opening track “Wanna” fades in primarily from the front heights, while the keyboards float between the front stage and side surrounds. “Treat Each Other Right” focuses the rhythmic energy towards the front, with the synthesizers amusingly panning back-and-forth between the front and rear speakers. The ambient intro to “Waited All Night” fills up the entire room to stunning effect.

Fans have expressed enthusiasm for In Waves, appreciating its dance-centric focus and the unique use of samples. Discussions on platforms like Reddit reflect a general consensus that the album successfully captures the essence of Jamie xx's DJ sets, with some listeners praising its nostalgic yet modern sound .

In Waves stands as a testament to Jamie xx's ability to evolve while staying true to his roots. Balancing club-ready tracks with introspective moments, the album offers a multifaceted listening experience that resonates with both longtime fans and newcomers to his music. While opinions vary on its cohesiveness compared to In Colour, In Waves undeniably reinforces Jamie xx's position as a significant figure in contemporary electronic music.

IAA offers immersive digital downloads in the lossless Dolby TrueHD format. While streaming services offer convenience and access to a vast library of music, they also severely compress the audio to save bandwidth. With lossless TrueHD, the inner detail and sonic clarity is much-better preserved for home listeners.

In WAves is the twenty-second entry in an ongoing series of high-resolution digital immersive releases from IAA and Beggars Group, one of the world's largest and most-respected independent label groups. Beggars Group is home to 4AD, Matador Records, Rough Trade, XL Recordings and Young, as well as a growing publishing wing (Beggars Music) and a successful catalog imprint (Beggars Arkive).

Many more new album releases from Beggars Group are already available to stream in Dolby Atmos, including key titles from landmark artists such as Bartees Strange, Future Islands, Mdou Moctar, and more. Over the coming months, we plan to make more of this fantastic immersive catalog available in hi-res downloadable form through our online shop.

Purchase In Waves in the IAA Shop!

About the Author

Immersive Audio Album is a marketplace where immersive and surround sound artists can sell their music.