British singer-songwriter Rex Orange County has released his new album, The Alexander Technique. The album was produced entirely by Rex himself along with Teo Halm (Rosalía, SZA, Beyoncé) and Jim Reed.
The Alexander Technique takes its name from a therapeutic practice in which back pain is treated in order to address deeper health issues, and it’s a fitting name for Rex’s rawest album to date: what might have started out as a simple exercise in shifting the scope of his writing ended up becoming his most confessional album. Stripping his sound down to a skeletal blend of R&B and indie-folk but retaining the orchestral lushness that’s become his hallmark, The Alexander Technique marks the beginning of the second act of Rex’s Orange County career: a new chapter in which he lays it all bare, no matter how painful.
In a conversation with Rex Orange County, he discussed the inspiration behind the album’s title, the challenges he faced during the creative process, and his collaboration with other artists. He also shared his thoughts on his own evolution as an artist and the importance of being honest and vulnerable in his music.
The Alexander Technique is a very personal album. Can you talk about the inspiration behind the title and how it relates to the themes explored in the songs?
I had the title for a while. I was familiar with the practice (which addresses posture and mind-body awareness) and always thought it would be a great name for an album, particularly because my name is Alexander… having had actual back pain and the first song on the album being a true story about going to the doctor, I knew it was a fitting name for this project. The creation of this album also took more exploring than ever and I felt like the method of creating was my own personal technique. That of course made the title make even more sense.
You’ve been working on this album for a while. What were some of the biggest challenges or breakthroughs you faced during the creative process?
I was mostly challenged by myself. I’m generally a bit of a perfectionist, at times to my advantage and at times to my detriment. The challenge was attempting to decipher what was needed / what made sense on the album both musically and lyrically. having to make tough decisions, realizing that some ideas just didn’t fit cohesively into The Alexander Technique world.
You’ve collaborated with some incredible producers on this album. How did working with Teo Halm and Jim Reed shape the final sound of the project?
I’ve known Teo and Jim for many years and they’re two of my closest friends. Knowing them so well allowed me to be more comfortable and confident in the studio. They had great ideas for samples to include and their production techniques added to the sound of the project significantly.
How has your songwriting evolved since your debut album? What have you learned about yourself as an artist during this time?
At the beginning, writing the first album I felt free to say anything and sound any way because I didn’t feel like anyone was listening. I also did pretty much everything myself. But I collaborate a lot more these days and am more open to ideas. I have also learned the importance of listening to my instincts and not worrying too much about what anyone else thinks.
The album feels quite raw and vulnerable. Was it difficult to share such personal stories with the world?
I would agree this album is my most vulnerable, it feels a bit like a diary but I’ve always worn my heart on my sleeve and been super honest. I find it cathartic to write that way.
You’ve achieved immense success in recent years. How do you balance the demands of fame with your personal life?
I’m really proud of everything I’ve achieved in my career so far. But I see myself as a musician more than a famous person and am grateful I get to do this for a living. Being in the public eye can sometimes be challenging but I have learned to have boundaries with my personal life and to not care what anyone thinks of me who doesn’t actually know me. I have amazing friends and family who I love and trust and who keep me grounded.
What are your plans for the future? Are there any specific goals or projects you’re excited about?
I’d like to get into some more collaborations. I have something coming out soon with another artist that I think is so great! I really enjoy working with other people so more of that for sure. I have some plans for other creative outlets besides music as well!
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians who are just starting out?
Things have changed a lot from when I first started. My advice would be to…
1. always listen to your instincts. being ‘authentic’ / staying close to what you believe will be your compass to navigate this whole thing.
2. there will be times you may question whether you should compromise your integrity… you must not!
3. do as much as you can without relying on anyone else.
4. sometimes writing something down / manifesting it can really work, I did for me.
5. I was terrible at school, and didn’t go to uni, so don’t worry about that… (this is more of an assurance than advice)
6. just do your best, trust yourself, and remember that it’s actually a contact sport. when you get hurt, get back up and keep going!