LA-based singer-songwriter Alex McArtor is back with her second single of 2024 ‘In the Dark’. Given McAtor’s young age at just 22 years old, it is impressive that we can look back on her career evolution and back catalogue and contextualize so much of her work, such as reflecting on her releases from when she was just 17. Even then she had established a confidence and self-assuredness in her writing that can be found in all her subsequent records. Over time we are able to hear her skillfully incorporate in her music the varying influences from her excellent music taste from ethereal 70s, electronic 80s and rock/pop and soul.
‘In the Dark’ is an electro-pop track produced by Grammy Award nominated Benny Cassette. She says, “I was inspired to write it after walking around Paris late at night listening to Roxy Music and the Cars. It’s a triumph song about realising your own self-worth and taking your power back from a situation that’s draining your life force.”
It’s a melancholic yet powerful song, drawing on these 70s/80s electro influences and delivered in an excellent cinematic Lana Del Rey-esque style. The verses have the beat of someone walking through city streets, the stride can be felt in every off beat, and the bridge hits with an almost forceful realisation. The chorus is where it really captures the listener, eyes closed and arms in the air.
Along with the single, McArtor has released a video that captures the 80s Hollywood vibe with grainy black and white visuals and gorgeous cinematography capturing classic retro woman’s power imagery. ‘In the Dark’ is another classic by Alex McArtor and considering the critical acclaim from major publications and musical establishments, we have no doubt we will be watching a very exciting career ahead.
