The musical landscape feels like it's more crowded than ever, and an act's relationship with its fanbase is crucial to maintain a long career — which is something, judging from their recent tour announcements, that the members of the xx clearly understand.

Pitchfork reports that the group has started building a North American tour itinerary behind its upcoming third studio LP, I See You — and although they haven't issued anything in the way of of an official announcement yet, word's started getting out via the free tickets they've mailed fans in areas they'll be performing.

As of this writing, the list of dates is still fairly small — confirmed stops are limited to Dallas, Philadelphia, and Portland, Ore. — but what this tour lacks in terms of a speedy public rollout, it more than makes up in advance buzz. As Pitchfork notes, each city has been confirmed through the mailing of a free 7" and pair of passes to fans who were among the first to pre-order I See You — a pretty stellar way of saying "thank you" to the hardcore faithful.

As previously reported, I See You is due Jan. 13, and was preceded by the release of leadoff single "On Hold." According to the press release announcing the new LP, it marks "a new era" for the band "both sonically and in terms of process," resulting in a 10-song track listing that finds them at "their boldest yet, performing with more clarity and ambition than ever before."

Keep an eye on the xx's official site for more updates, complete tour date listings, and ticketing information.

2017's Most Anticipated Albums

More From Diffuser.fm