The music of Rex Orange County has always been something of a litmus test. You either fall head over heels for his genre-defying sound, or you find it completely perplexing. With his latest album, 'The Alexander Technique', Rex Orange County fully embraces the idiosyncrasies that make his music so unique, delivering a quirky, off-kilter, and introspective release that promises to be divisive.
Opening the album is 'Alexander', a melancholic piano-driven track that sets the tone for the record. The song explores the frustrations of chronic back pain and the realization that it's masking deeper emotional struggles. Rex's slightly snarled and exhausted tone perfectly captures the mood of the song, while the blend of vulnerability and dry humour is both impactful and relatable.
'Guitar Song' follows, offering a more melodically driven experience. The upbeat guitar stylings and folky feel provide a welcome contrast to the opening track, while the complex chords and instrumental outro showcase Rex's musicianship. '2008' is a nostalgic reflection on simpler times, with Rex nodding to the influence of Kanye West's 808s & Heartbreak and Lil Wayne's Tha Carter III in its lyrics. 'Therapy' brings a Sunday church organ vibe, fitting for its sermon-like narrative. While the musicality is impressive, the vocal delivery feels a bit uninspired.
'The Table' is a standout track, showcasing Rex's talent for turning ordinary moments into profound reflections on life. Lines like, "At least I got more out of it than just somewhere to sit and eat" and "Two folks between coffee, now there's two more people sat down, on a once-sat-under tree" transform the mundane into something truly lovely. Later tracks like 'Pure' expand the genre list on offer, leaning into pop with playful melodies and a sub-heavy kick drum. 'One Of These Days' stands out with its brass and strings, offering a more orchestrated and classic edge, while 'Carrera' adds to the pop stylings with a short and sweet two-minute bop.
The middle third of the album showcases Rex's ability to traverse the musical landscape with ease. 'Much Too Much' opens with a beautiful finger-picked guitar that gives way to a surprising Latin lounge music style chorus. 'Lost For Words' shifts from acoustic guitar to strings, horns, and a thumping pedal steel country vibe, before 'Sliding Door' returns to a tender piano number, adding a full stop to the genre tour.
'Look Me in the Eyes' featuring James Blake delivers one of the album's most vulnerable and emotionally raw moments. The song focuses on the insecurities of lost love, with lines like "Look me in the eyes, if you're gonna lie, look me in the eyes if you're gonna flee." While the album closes with 'New Years', a reflection on failed resolutions, and 'Finally', a fitting conclusion to an album that defines Rex Orange County at his most introspective.
Overall, 'The Alexander Technique' is a testament to Rex Orange County's growth as an artist. The musicianship is undeniably impressive, with intricate arrangements and genre-bending experimentation. However, this musicality can sometimes outshine his lyrical and melodic choices. The album also feels indulgent in places, which is not necessarily a criticism. Longtime fans will likely relish the deeper dive into introspection, but for newer listeners, this might not be the easiest entry point into his discography.
Despite its challenges, 'The Alexander Technique' is an album that rewards listeners willing to sit with it. It's a record that solidifies Rex as an artist unafraid to take risks, even if not all of them land perfectly.
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