Rex Orange County Talks of Love and the Pressures of the World in "New House"
Photo: Dan Burn-Forti
One of the breakout stars of the last couple years, Rex Orange County's distinctive lyricism paired with elements of jazz, hip-hop, soul, and bedroom electronica took the world by storm. While the breakout UK artist certainly kept himself busy in 2018 playing every major music festival in the sun, he has been noticeably quiet in regards to new music. Thankfully, Valentine's Day brings a lot more than heart-shaped chocolate boxes.
"New House" is a multi-faceted and intimate glimpse into the past year of Rex Orange County, albeit transposed to superb song. With all the songwriting warmth of Randy Newman and the lyrical flow of Tyler, the Creator, Rex Orange County discloses on the emotional turmoil that has accompanied his rapid rise to fame and the person who has helped to get him through it.
Detailing the anxiety that comes with trying to impress the world at large and people constantly wanting something of him, the one constant source of comfort arrives in the form of Thea, fellow singer and Rex Orange County's longtime girlfriend. Speaking on the heartfelt new track, the UK artist shared in an Instagram post,
"Hey. I want to say thank you to everyone that is here for me now and to those who are still here from before. Life is weird and it seems like everyone has a difficult time in one way or another. The greatest things always seem to come with a level of confusion that makes it easy to question whether anything matters... with that being, I must confirm that I still love doing this and that I'm beyond grateful for all the support I've been shown. Life is good. I'm happier today than I was for the majority of last year. Thea is my valentine... and whether you're in love today or not, this one is for you, from me."
The artist's first new music since 2017, not including a phenomenal Randy Newman - assisted cover of "You've Got a Friend in Me," "New House" shines a light on the very personal struggles that have likely led to the extended absence of new music. And all we can really say is, at whatever pace or time Rex Orange County feels best releasing new music, we will always be here patiently waiting to praise whatever excellent musical offering he has to bestow the world.
Listen to "New House" below:
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