LEXXE
X
Release: January 29, 2023
Review by Jaylen Heady
Rising dark-pop icon LEXXE twirls together a shadowy, euphoric disco dedicated to her late father Xavier (X) as she poses the question, "Do we ever really die?"
PHOTO BY SAM SAN ROMÁN
LEXXE is no stranger to excellence. Previously based out of Long Island and presently Queens, New York, she began her career as a trained ballet dancer at Seiskaya Ballet Academy, and subsequently earned a BFA from SUNY Purchase Conservatory of Dance. Her elegant energy and graceful voice blend to form pure magic in her music. In addition to stellar musical performance, she maintains her passion for dance with her neo-burlesque dance troupe COMPANY XIV. Her latest release of X came on an unusual, but significant date, January 29th, the birthday of her late father. Aside from the clear heartfelt sentiment, X is a distinct presentation of her masterful artistry. The lyrics are raw, reflective, and question the permanence of what it means to be completely gone. Her juxtaposition of an intensely personal, heartbreaking subject matter with a beat that sounds as if it could be found in a brick wall-clad underground neon club makes for a unique song that is so perfectly LEXXE. About the song LEXXE notes, "A few years ago I was performing and could absolutely swear I saw my father sitting front row… I love to write about the supernatural and the things we don't understand, so while I acknowledge that seeing him could've been something my mind made up, it doesn't make it any less poignant." The dramatic difference in lyricism versus instrumentation exudes a deeper analysis of coping with love and loss. LEXXE balances the whirlwind of grief exquisitely in a way that makes the song relatable to almost anyone that has experienced a great loss. Her airy vocals are angelic, and the melody feels hopeful, especially in the way she sings,
You’re every glass of whiskey Every vintage car And I feel you all around me Know you can’t be far
Yet, the song is no cliché ballad. Her sound offers a gritty undertone that interestingly contrasts the heavenly elements with darker supernatural explorations. It is a fearlessly stunning tribute that radiates a beautiful solace, even in its darkest moments.
Listen to X on Spotify and Apple Music. Follow LEXXE on Instagram and Twitter.