Hotly tipped newcomers The xx have been rocked after guitarist Baria Qureshi departed the group.
The xx formed at high school, practising in each other’s bedrooms late at night. Turning their amps down to avoid disturbing their family the band happened upon a uniquely sparse and inventive sound.
Releasing a string of singles The xx became one of the year’s most impressive breakthrough acts. The band’s debut album was a stunning artistic success, attracting rave reviews across the board.
However The xx have been stopped in their tracks after guitarist Baria Qureshi left the band. Recently the group had been forced to cancel a number of shows with Qureshi reportedly suffering from exhaustion.
Now it seems as though the guitarist will leave the group permanently. Speaking to NME singer Romy Madley Croft has confirmed that The xx will continue as a three piece for the time being.
“Baria has left the band,” she confirmed. “I guess ‘personal differences’ would be the standard way to say it. I guess it’s just the intensity of being on tour, things are so much heightened.”
Due to play a number of dates in North American and Europe before the year is out, The xx vow to complete their touring schedule. “Jamie (Smith) needs another few arms so he can work everything,” the singer joked.
“Everything’s going to be completely live. It’s going to mean a bit of brushing up on lead pedal manuals.”
