After a decade making music as one half of The Naked And Famous, New Zealand-born, Los Angeles-based Alisa Xayalith is stepping into her own spotlight with her debut solo album, 'Slow Crush'. This collection of dreamy and personal tracks delves into the intricacies of love, loss, and the journey of self-discovery, marking a significant new chapter for the artist.
As Xayalith explains, “This album happened during a season when I felt myself shifting into the next phase of my career. I was yearning for a safe space to write and grow. I committed to prioritizing the health of my creativity, and as I did, love and romance began to fill the cracks in my life, leading to my eventual album. My process felt reminiscent of a slow crush building over time. It was the catharsis I needed to push me into this next chapter where I could simply be ‘Alisa Xayalith.’”
The latest single from the album, 'Alone With You', offers a poignant glimpse into the emotional landscape that shaped 'Slow Crush'. Written during a difficult three-month period in New Zealand while awaiting US visa approval, the track was sparked by a brief, yet deeply felt, phone call with her partner in Los Angeles. It beautifully captures the ache of separation and the uncertainty of that time. The accompanying music video, directed by Brandon Black in downtown Phoenix, takes visual cues from Wong Kar Wai’s stylish neo-noir film, 'Fallen Angels'.
Employing a resourceful DIY approach with a tight budget, much of the atmospheric and romantic video was filmed through a car window, a testament to Xayalith's creative vision and resourcefulness, and a project she holds dear.
'Slow Crush' is a collaborative effort, brought to life with the help of executive producer Tyler Spry (known for his work with d4vd, Tate McCrae, and OneRepublic), alongside co-producers Harry Charles and Josh Naley.' The songwriting process also saw contributions from Rami Jrade, Sierra Deaton, and Benjamin Francis Leftwich, adding further depth and texture to the album's sonic tapestry.
To celebrate the release of 'Slow Crush' and the 'Alone With You' video, Xayalith has also announced a support tour with Sunday (1994). Kicking off on April 24th in San Francisco, the tour will take her to cities including Seattle at Madame Lou’s and New York at Bowery Ballroom, before culminating in a hometown show in Los Angeles at The Troubadour on June 5th.
'Slow Crush' represents more than just a collection of songs; it's Xayalith's story, told authentically and on her own terms. After a decade as part of a successful duo, this solo venture signifies a blossoming into a fully realised individual artist. The tracks within the album weave together themes of triumph, heartbreak, and resilience, reflecting the multifaceted nature of human connection and the quiet strength found in personal evolution.
