The Meaning of “Intro” by The xx: Sonic Architecture and Emotional Resonance

Few instrumental tracks from the 21st century have achieved the cultural ubiquity and emotional gravity of “Intro” by the English indie pop band The xx. Released as the opening track of their critically acclaimed, mercury-prize-winning 2009 debut album, xx, the song contains zero traditional lyrical verses. Yet, despite its lack of words, “Intro” speaks volumes.