Rex Orange County is the alias of English musician Alex O’Connor, a singer/songwriter that integrates influences from jazz, hip-hop, and contemporary bedroom pop music. Like many of his peers, he rose to fame due to grassroots support of his self-produced debut bcos u will never be free, which he built upon with 2017’s Apricot Princess, which managed to hit the top of the Billboard Independent Album chart. He evokes the style of classic performers such as Elton John and Randy Newman, he collaborated with the latter on a 2018 digital single. Tyler The Creator was another early fan and supporter, featuring Rex on two tracks on 2017’s Flower Boy. 2019 sees the release of his third LP Pony, 10 tracks of emotive, lo-fi lyrical pop. The 21 year old is a clear product of his generation, leading to a diverse sounding album as informed by hip-hop as it is by indie rock. “10/10” begins the album with bright synths and restrained sub-bass sequences, “Always” is easy-listening balladry with a raw, honest edge. “Face To Face” is a more downtempo number driven by layers of overdriven vocals and nearly inaudible breaths, “Never Had The Balls” is a cheeky synth-pop number that neatly integrates nature sounds. This record comes packaged in a clear plastic sleeve featuring a print of the album’s title, and includes a printed inner and lyric insert.

• black vinyl pressing
• digital download included
• limited edition
• music label: RCA 2019

reviewed by HORSE OWNERS ARE GOING PLACES 11/2019