Oliver Sim makes his long-awaited return today with brand new single ‘Obsession’, his first new music since 2022’s acclaimed debut solo album Hideous Bastard. Produced by Bullion and Taylor Skye and recorded between London and Los Angeles, the track ushers in a fresh era of experimentation, collaboration, and invention for the London-based musician who’s best known as one third of The xx. Where Hideous Bastard explored themes of shame, fear, and masculinity with radical honesty, “Obsession” provides a stylish counterpoint: chic, irreverent, and playful.
Premiered this morning on BBC 6Music by Nick Grimshaw, with Sim joining live in the studio for a candid conversation, ‘Obsession’ tells a tale of infatuation and lust. The track is accompanied by a striking music video directed by lauded photographer and filmmaker Sharna Osborne, starring Sim alongside British fashion icon Erin O’Connor.
Notably, ‘Obsession’ marks Sim’s first ever release not produced by his longtime best friend, collaborator and bandmate Jamie xx. However, the bond between The xx remains as strong as ever: the trio are currently at work on their highly-anticipated fourth album and recently reunited on stage at Jamie’s LIDO festival in London.
Beyond music, Sim continues to expand his creative world. Recently, he was invited by Jonathan Anderson to star in the rebooted JW Anderson “Resort” lookbook, appearing alongside Saltburn actress Alison Oliver, director Luca Guadagnino, actors Joe Alwyn and Ben Whishaw, stylist Danielle Goldberg, fashion designer Bella Freud, and photographer Gray Sorrenti.
WATCH/LISTEN
Oliver Sim – Obsession (Official Video)
Oliver Sim
Instagram / TikTok / Facebook / YouTube
