From the band’s artwork to the outfits and to the name itself, The xx have a visual aesthetic that’s as minimalist and stylized as its moody music. So, it isn’t much of a surprise that the band has announced a new sleek collaboration with Urban Outfitters and zine-makers
The Tourist
to expand its take on the format.
Like the previous two installments, the new issue was shot by famed music photog Jamie-James Medina, who has worked with everyone from Jay-Z to Lady Gaga, and will include 40 pages of backstage photos spanning May to August 2012 in Japan, Australia, and France, along with handwritten lyrics from the band. Expect lots of lo-fi pics of Jamie, Madley, and Oliver looking wistful, woebegone, and otherwise heartbroken as they travel the globe, playing sold-out venues in support of their sophomore LP, Coexist. Ah, the rock-star lifestyle.
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Says Medina: "I started working with The xx in 2009/2010 traveling with them, taking photos of the group on tour and just being present. It’s the perfect environment to capture music and musicians in their natural state — on the road, away from home. I wanted to create a publication that showcased exclusive, high-end photography in an affordable zine-format, so we created The Tourist."
Considering the band had a song on its first record called "VCR," a physical zine couldn't make more sense. Rumors that the next record will be released via 8-track remain unconfirmed, however. Cop yours at Urban Outfitters October 6, and watch a teaser video below.