Alex J. Thompson – Lonely Together (2021)
We all have masks and layers that we show to different people in our lives, but our true selves under all the masks is something that we are generally reluctant to show. Sharing this raw side of ourselves can be daunting, but it can also be extremely rewarding and special. This is what Alex J. Thompson is considering through the driving retro sounds of ‘Lonely Together’.
While the single delves into the joy of connection on a deeper level with others, the soundscape continues his reflective yet danceable sound. Since falling in love with music through signing in his school’s choir, Thompson has taught himself to produce and record his own songs via YouTube. Combining this self-taught skillset with his natural songwriting ability, he plucks the best bits of retro sounds and mixes them with modern concerns for a contemporary sound.
‘Lonely Together’ has a touch of retro synth vibes to the opening that pulls you into the neon lights of the track. The synths that make up the high levels of the melody are soft as they shine down on the deep beats of the low level. These layers come together for a danceable sound before the beats pick up the pace and get your feet really tapping to their rhythm. The layering of the melody is artfully done and brings a gentle flow to dance beats while sonically weaving the message of the track into your veins.
The electronic flow of the melody leaks into the vocals which have an electronic edge to them. The echoing and blending of the vocal lines adds depth to the performance that matches the message of the single. Through the lyrics, you are drawn into the joy of opening yourself to someone on an intimate level. Thompson is able to bring the struggle of showing your vulnerable side to the bliss of doing this and the connection that comes from it. This is all wrapped into a soundscape that you can easily dance around to and play at full volume.
Alex J. Thompson has you dancing to his soundscape while drawing you into the joyful intimacy of sharing your vulnerable side with another in ‘Lonely Together’. The retro synth tones that open the track give way to a contemporary layering that shines with the deeper message of the single. His vocals have an electronic edge but this does not negate their power or emotive drive.
Find out more about Alex J. Thompson on his Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.