Rex's "Pony" rides into another hit album

Last month, Rex Orange County released his latest album, “Pony.” With 10 new songs, Rex has once again proved his rhythmic excellence through charismatic lyrics and beloved melodies. Though just as musically and perhaps even more emotionally fulfilling as his other albums, Rex’s new recordings have introduced a few new elements with the production and mood of his songs. Rex has come out to share the stories of his struggles to his audience as much of the songs seem to incorporate multiple themes of despair and the tragedy of dealing with change, while of course, he made sure not to exclude the lighthearted indie tunes that flow melodiously with his raspy nasal voice. The opening song on the album, titled “10/10,” is infused with prominent electronic instruments creating a stronger pop charisma that has been more subtle in his older music. The song, “Never Had The Balls,” expresses similar pop-related patterns coupled with appropriate tones and themes to the title, explaining Rex’s abundance of emotional struggles towards giving up and losing faith in himself when faced with obstacles of love and success. Though it may be hard to admit, it is clear that these songs drift slightly further away from the ‘original Rex’.Though his talent has most certainly been preserved, listeners may feel a slight sense of nostalgia when listening to Rex’s new songs, because of what may be seen as an attempt by Rex to conform his music to a more mainstream pop. Not only does there seem to be a subtle absence of the humorous lyrics he is known for, but there is a sadness sensed in his music stronger than ever before. This idea is reflected throughout his new song “It’s Not The Same Anymore.” Sorrow spills from his lyrics as he expresses his view of his life as of now and just how the glamour of fame and success has caused him a great deal of unhappiness. Another song included on the album, “It Gets Better,” dedicates a message to his listeners thanking them for the positive feedback he has received from his fans and how he feels a great deal of gratitude for the path his music has led him on. This song also incorporates new instrumental methods of a more pop based melody and electronic tones. Nonetheless, a few songs on “Pony” stay true to his previous sound. “Pluto Projector” is a solemn melody of love, and perhaps even the absence of it. Rex has proven capable of being able to maintain the lyrically sophisticated and casual aspects of his music through this song that incorporates similar instrumental techniques to his past songs. “Face to Face,” a more upbeat melody, reflects this idea as well. Infused with multiple lighthearted metaphors and hints at a beautiful love story, this song reflects the ‘before stardom Rex’.His distinctive poetry known for being sweet with a hint of angst remains prominent in the lyrics throughout the new album. A jazz infused melody titled, “Laser Lights” has an abundance of verses that leave you pondering the true meaning behind the worlds he chose to lace together. “Arm to the face, when we have to speak I usually shoegaze. And if I saw you in public, I would pretend to tie my shoe lace.” This line describes how he has chosen to go about avoiding a particular someone. The line could have been simple and straightforward, but Rex turned it into a vivid mental image for the audience. This skill has always stood out among his music and without doubt, has never disappointed fans.It may be an anxious experience when tuning in on one of your favorite artists’ latest releases. However, although Rex has introduced a few foreign elements into his new album, he has done a lovely job at simultaneously maintaining his originality and boyish charm while growing as an artist.