It’s the best one yet.
Alexander James O’Connor’s album, “WHO CARES?” premiered on March 11, compiling an 11 song tracklist, making it his longest album yet. The 23-year-old is professionally known as Rex Orange County (ROC) and made his grand debut in 2016 when he released his first album, “Bcos U Will Never B Free.”
His musical twist of alternative bedroom pop combines jazz, hip-hop, and soul influences that prove to emulate the perfect everyday vibe. The “WHO CARES?” album speaks a carefree language, aiming to encourage listeners to seek spontaneity, laugh about it and move on. Take my word for it; you’re going to want to add this album to your go-to playlist.
Like his other albums, “Apricot Princess” and “Pony,” ROC devotes time to creating powerful instrumental approaches to most songs. It’s not often that you won’t hear a classical or jazzy instrumental solo right before he draws you in with his sweet, quirky voice.
“KEEP IT UP,” his first single off the album, released in January, instantly becoming a massive hit among fans. ROC posted on Instagram the publishing of the song, announcing, “NEW SONG ‘KEEP IT UP’ OUT WEDNESDAY 26TH JANUARY PRESAVE LINK IN THE BIO.”
The post garnered over 200,000 likes, along with over 5,000 comments.
The song begins with an orchestral melody specifically emphasizing string instruments that last for about 10 seconds. According to EUPHORIA. Magazine, the tune is then followed with a “groovy bassline and lush synths.” ROC knew exactly what he was doing here. This unique play on beats and melodies makes for an extraordinarily quirky and warm listening experience that you would only discover through this artist.
The point behind “KEEP IT UP” is not just to expose the weight of ROC’s personal feelings but to relate with his fans. Lyrics like “I never give myself respect” and “Keep it up and go on, you’re only holding out for what you want” can be incredibly relatable, and it’s clear he’s speaking to more than just himself.
Other songs that seem to invoke the same relatability include “WORTH IT,” “7AM,” and “WHO CARES?” In all three tracks, ROC has a kind of conversation with himself; he asks questions and proceeds to answer them, playing around with concepts inside his head. But through these questions, fans can sing along and think about the lyrics from their perspective.
ROC does a phenomenal job at conversational singing. It can be mellow or upbeat, but he draws listeners in with his simple tone and clear-cut verbiage. An artist who understands how to relate with their audience is what builds an influential fan base. Similar artists Billie Eilish and Daniel Caesar strive for this type of music; ROC constantly moves up each year and can easily be compared to the two.
In addition to his genuine relatability with his fan base, ROC is a huge simp. He is known for capitalizing on heartbreak and the aftermath of a relationship while also describing the best parts of falling in love. You can say he’s a bit of a hopeless romantic.
Listen to “OPEN A WINDOW (feat. Tyler, The Creator),” and you might feel like the only other person that matters in your life is your secret crush or your forever lover. Sometimes it’s hard to escape the stress of life, and all you need is some fresh air with the person you love most. This song is the perfect mood matcher.
Another moody song off the album is “SHOOT ME DOWN.” The song takes on a more retro, slow rock vibe. ROC throws out the word heartbreak, and you realize you’re reminiscing about your latest ex. It’s interesting because he doesn’t work with too many words throughout the song. It’s catchy and straightforward and probably one of the more depressing songs from the album. But I’m here for it.
Now take out the depression, and you’d get “MAKING TIME,” which also incorporates slow rock. It’s the shortest song from the album and honestly quite cute. ROC emphasizes what it feels like to make time for the ones you love and how that can feel like a safety net.
Take that song and throw it next to “ONE IN A MILLION,” “THE SHADE,” and “IF YOU WANT IT,” and your heart may melt. ROC pours his heart into these love songs. He is an artist with many feelings, and he knows how to create a mood board through his lyrics and melodies. Like “MAKING TIME,” these tracks shoot for a romantic plea that is both simple and sweet.
My favorite piece off the album is “AMAZING.” It’s a love song that I hope many think of when they are in a romantic relationship. ROC sums up a good mood and a good relationship with lyrics like, “Don’t change a thing, you are amazing. I can’t believe you’ve come and saved me.” The rhythm and rhyme here have a beautiful effect on the chorus and are perfect for singing along.
If you’re looking for the perfect carefree and fun mix of songs, ROC’s album “WHO CARES?” is it. It’s now available on all streaming platforms, and you can even visit rexorangecounty.com to learn more about his other music and future concert dates.
Check out his recent “KEEP IT UP” music video.
The Beat @APU 