As we have learned a few weeks ago, The xx are currently in the recording studio crafting their upcoming second album. Now, just in time for Christmas, the trio unleashes a first demo audio impression in the shape of "Open Eyes." Experience the song inluding an accompanying hazy visual above.

Following the announcement that their new album is in the works, The xx have now revealed some interesting details regarding the highly anticipated long-player. In an interview with The Creators Project, Jamie xx stated that their upcoming offering has been influenced by "club music," and that they intend to release it in time for next year's festival season.

"The majority of stuff that I'm working now is The xx stuff," he said. "We're just about to start recording. Hopefully we'll get it done in time to be asked to do festivals next year, because that's the most fun. We've all come back off tour and [have] kind of been partying a little bit more. So club music has definitely had an influence on the next record."

Watch the entire interview above.

The long-awaited comeback of The xx is taking slowly but surely into shape as the indie pop trio announced their performance at Primavera Sound festival in Barcelona, Spain next year. The band is set to play tracks from their forthcoming second album, the followup to their celebrated 2009 debut. The festival's lineup will also include the likes of Death Cab For Cutie, Beach House, The Dirty Three and others. Optimus Primavera Sound takes place June 7-10, 2012 in Parque Da Cidade, Porto. More information on the festival can be found at Primaverasound.com.

Rihanna's cover of The xx's "Intro" has arrived. It certainly is a sort of different approach once you compare it to the original but it sure is an honest effort that deserves a listen or two. Let us know your thoughts on this tune and mind you that Talk That Talk is out November 21.

While Drake is using a sample of Jamie xx's remix of Gil Scott-Heron's "I'll Take Care of U" on the Rihanna-powered title track from his new album Take Care, the Caribbean songstress is also adding some influences by the iconic UK indie pop collective. Point in case, Rih Rih samples the xx's "Intro" on a track called "Drunk on Love" on her upcoming album Talk That Talk, which is out November 21. Listen to a short preview of "Drunk on Love" below as well as "Intro."

Rihanna – Drunk on Love (Snippet)

The xx – Intro

Source: Pitchfork

As a followup to their album Burst Apart, which came out earlier this year, The Antlers are currently preparing an eight-track outtakes EP, called (together). The piece is set to contain collaborations with illustrious names like Neon Indian, Bear in Heaven and Nicole Atkins. In addition, the Brooklyn indie rock outfit has cooked up a special treat in the shape of cover of the xx's "VCR" that can be listened below. (together) is due November 22 via Frenchkiss.

Great news from The xx are reaching us today. The British indie band has revealed that they started to work on the followup to their celebrated 2009 self-titled debut. This announcement appeared on a new website, called xx-xx.co.uk.

We have started recording our second album! We have also started this blog where we will post our inspirations + pictures + favourite songs. We hope you enjoy it! Lots of Love, The xx

Stay tuned as more details on this project are likely to emerge soon.

Remixing a song by The xx appears to be a smart choice. However, if a refix of the infamous London duo is the first addition to your SoundCloud account, then it better be smoking. Point in case, Manchester-based producer Synkro delivers an impressive ambient house rendition of “Night Time.” The tune should give enough incentive to be on the lookout for this England talent. Tune in below!

New York-based experimental disco house outfit Hercules & Love Affair are up to release their new single "Painted Eyes" due April 18 via Moshi Moshi. As an early teaser, the band offers the B-side track - an impressive rendition of The xx's "Shelter" which appeared on the Londoners' self-titled debut album in 2009. The minimalistic essence of the original version is maintained and backed up by a convincing vocal delivery by Kim Ann Foxman. An adequate tune for international dancefloors. Enjoy your weekend and listen below!

Here's a new mashup being offered, that blends together some Kanye West and The xx into this one epic mix. All credit goes to Carlos Serrano who was able to put this nice project together, with the end results coming out quite spectacular. Check out the full mix down below, enjoy!