Alex G’s latest album, Headlights, released on July 18, 2025, signals a dramatic shift in the artist’s approach to indie rock. Known for his raw, experimental sound and lo-fi aesthetic, Alex G (Alex Giannascoli) has moved toward a more polished, softer style with this release. The album, which marks his debut with RCA Records, sees the artist experimenting with new textures, melodies, and influences, blending Americana and indie folk with his signature experimentalism.
A New Direction for Alex G
Headlights showcases Alex G’s evolution as an artist. Gone are the lo-fi recording methods that defined his early work. In their place is a more polished sound, with higher production value and a smoother mix that embraces clarity while retaining his introspective charm. The album’s composition reflects Alex G’s growing confidence and maturity as a musician, moving away from the chaotic and abrasive elements of his previous releases.
The artist has teamed up with Jacob Portrait of Unknown Mortal Orchestra to produce this record, and their collaboration brings a fresh dynamic to Alex G’s already distinctive sound. Tracks like “June Guitar” and “Real Thing” feature lush, melodic arrangements that highlight Alex G’s skill as a songwriter. The album’s experimental nature is still present, but it’s now tempered with a more accessible and refined approach, a natural progression for an artist who has long been known for pushing boundaries.
Musicality and Influences
The album opens with the hauntingly beautiful “Beam Me Up,” a track that sets the tone for the record’s softer, more ethereal atmosphere. The song’s gentle guitar strums and subtle synths create a dreamlike quality, drawing comparisons to artists like Neil Young and Elliott Smith, whose emotional depth and melancholy are echoed in Alex G’s lyrics. Tracks like “Is It Still You In There?” showcase a different side of the artist, with lush string arrangements and dreamy vocals that evoke feelings of nostalgia and longing.
Throughout the album, Alex G incorporates a variety of influences. The Americana roots on tracks like “Louisiana” and “Bounce Boy” reflect his growing interest in folk and country elements, while the album’s use of offbeat sound effects and quirky vocal techniques, like the chipmunk vocals on “June Guitar,” keep the music rooted in the avant-garde style that has defined much of his previous work.
Themes of Self-Reflection and Ambition
Lyrically, Headlights explores themes of self-reflection, ambition, and the emotional costs of success. Tracks like “Real Thing” and “Louisiana” delve into Alex G’s internal struggles, addressing the tension between fame and personal fulfillment. The album’s more polished sound provides a perfect backdrop for these introspective lyrics, allowing Alex G’s emotional vulnerability to shine through.
On “Beam Me Up,” Alex G sings about the pressures of fame and the desire to escape it, offering a poignant commentary on the cost of success in the music industry. The themes of identity and fulfillment continue on “Is It Still You In There?” as the artist grapples with the complexities of self-perception.
Critical Reception and Standout Tracks
Upon its release, Headlights received widespread acclaim from critics who praised Alex G for his ability to evolve without losing his artistic integrity. Pitchfork called the album “a surprising, sophisticated, and mature step forward,” highlighting its melodic richness and emotional depth. Slant Magazine echoed these sentiments, noting that Alex G’s “evolving sound and lyrical introspection make Headlights a standout release of 2025.”
Standout tracks include “June Guitar,” a quirky, catchy song that mixes playful vocals with bittersweet lyrics, and “Beam Me Up,” which showcases Alex G’s talent for creating emotionally charged music with minimalistic arrangements. “Is It Still You In There?” is another fan favorite, featuring dreamy instrumentals and a haunting vocal performance that captures the vulnerability at the core of the album.
Conclusion: A Major Step Forward
Headlights is a major milestone in Alex G’s career, showcasing his growth as both a musician and a storyteller. The album offers a more accessible, polished sound while retaining the experimental elements that have made Alex G one of indie rock’s most compelling voices. With Headlights, Alex G proves that he’s not just a lo-fi artist but a versatile musician capable of creating emotionally resonant music that transcends genre boundaries.
For fans of Alex G’s earlier work, Headlights will be a welcome evolution, offering a glimpse into the artist’s future while still retaining the raw emotional honesty that has endeared him to listeners for years. The album is available for streaming on all major platforms and is a must-listen for anyone looking for a thoughtful, introspective journey through Alex G’s evolving musical landscape.