Sometimes it’s not just an artist’s songs, but also their very essence and everything they represent that further endear them to us. Such is the case with Alex The Astronaut (aka Alexandra Lynn); it’s her irresistible candour that draws us in.
The Arcade Fire-level winsome ‘Airport’ was inspired by a trip Alex took to the States to visit her dog Martin, who she hadn’t seen for four years, which resulted in “the best reunion ever”: “I’ve loved you. All. This. Time”– ouch, my heart!
Alex has said she watched My Octopus Teacher at a time when she felt embarrassed about her autism spectrum disorder diagnosis. Afterwards, she processed her messy feelings through song and latest single ‘Octopus’ spilled out. Simultaneously cute and heartcrushing (kinda like the accompanying film clip, which never fails to make our eyes leak), this song’s lyrics should form the basis of a children’s book: “Trying so hard to blend in/ I forgot I had something to give” – a delightful reminder to embrace and champion individuality.
Obsessing over details and being eternally curious is what makes Alex The Astronaut’s song-worlds so incredibly evocative. And it comes as no surprise to learn that hearing Paul Kelly’s ‘They Thought I Was Asleep’ – as a six-year-old relegated to the backseat in her parents’ car – is one of Alex’s earliest music memories.
Label: Warner
Release date: 22 July
