Two years ago was the first time I listened to Rex Orange County when my younger brother played one of his first singles, “Best Friend” in the car and I’ve been in love ever since. Alex O’Conner, artist behind the one-man music production, does an amazing job with taking music trends and turning them into something of his own. In his newest album, Pony,  which was released on Oct. 25, he does this in every way possible. 

Many of the beats used in his music have a mainstream sound to them, but then there’s a twist. Multiple different sounds are used in songs, creating an illusion of multiple songs in one. Sometimes a song will start at a slow-pace and in the next minute, it’ll transform into a faster, bouncier, beat. One of my favorite songs from the album, Pluto Projector, uses this technique in a way that enhances how the song makes you feel.

“Pluto Projector”

Rating: *****/*****

This song is amazing. From the lyrics, his voice, the orchestra, it’s just an all-around great song. Created for his girlfriend, as most of his songs are,  you can feel the love from the starting note. Pluto Projector was made with different beats throughout the verses and the chorus created a range of feels while listening to the song. It starts off slower and begins to pick up pace, then it slows down once again. The song offers a whirlwind of emotions as well as a whirlwind of sounds. He’ll leave you wishing you were as in love with someone as he is with his girlfriend, as I did while listening. This song really brings the hopeless romantic out of me. 

“Face to Face”

Rating: *****/*****

This song, in particular, is one of my favorites from the album. It was another one written for his beloved girlfriend. It goes through the tender emotions he feels for his girl and how he wishes he could be with her. It also uses different sounds throughout the song which helps to enhance emotion and quality starting off slow and as the song goes on speeding up. The beat is jumpy and uplifting and makes you want to dance which I LOVE. From experience, I’ve learned it’s an overall awesome jam perfect for a car ride past the beach. 

“Every Way”

Rating: **/*****

Don’t get me wrong, I do love the cute songs O’Conner writes about his beloved, but this one was too boring for me to LOVE love. The song is short, ending a little after the two-minute mark, with very little descriptive lyrics. I can’t lie, the lyrics were adorable, giving the exception for the two-star rating. In order for me to truly love this song, I would just need something a little more.