There’s a certain autumnal melancholy that permeates the air as the leaves change, a feeling that often finds its soundtrack in the music we choose. For many, this season evokes a longing for simpler times, a sentiment perfectly captured in the discography of (Sandy) Alex G. Recently, as Alex G’s popularity has surged, questions about his genre often arise. One that frequently surfaces is: Is Alex G Midwest Emo?
While (Sandy) Alex G, now known as Alex G, has undoubtedly resonated with fans of various indie genres, including emo, pinpointing his music within a single category is a complex task. His rise to prominence, especially after signing with Domino Records in 2015 and releasing acclaimed albums like House of Sugar, has broadened his audience, exposing his earlier, more lo-fi work to a wider listenership. These early tracks, often unearthed and shared by dedicated fans online from old blog posts and limited-edition releases like C-Sides, reveal a rawness and emotional depth that aligns with some aspects of the emo genre.
Take, for instance, “Track 10 (Halloween)“. This track, originating from the C-Sides compilation, encapsulates the nostalgic yet subtly unsettling atmosphere often associated with Alex G’s music. The gentle strumming of double-tracked acoustic guitar, combined with his signature falsetto vocals and harmonies – often speculated to include his frequent collaborator Emily Yacina – create a sound that is both intimate and haunting.
Alex G performing live, showcasing his indie rock style
Lyrically, however, “[Track 10 (Halloween)]” veers into darker territories, hinting at emotional abuse and a loss of childhood innocence. Lines like “Baby waited for me on Halloween / She said her mask would scare me, I don’t think it will / I know everyone can tell I’m an empty shell / But baby likes me better when I hurt myself,” showcase a lyrical ambiguity that is characteristic of Alex G’s songwriting. These vignettes into complex emotional landscapes, delivered with a lo-fi aesthetic, are elements that could lead some to categorize him within the broader emo sphere.
However, to strictly label Alex G as “Midwest emo” might be too limiting. Midwest emo, typically characterized by its distinct guitar work, confessional lyrics, and often more aggressive instrumentation, has a specific sound and scene lineage. While Alex G’s music shares the emotional vulnerability and DIY ethos often found in emo, his sonic palette is considerably broader. He incorporates elements of indie rock, folk, and even experimental music, creating a sound that defies easy categorization. His music is lo-fi in production, but stylistically diverse, ranging from acoustic ballads to more distorted and experimental tracks.
Ultimately, the question of “is Alex G Midwest emo?” highlights the challenges of genre classification, especially for artists who, like Alex G, continuously evolve and blend influences. While his music certainly taps into emotional depths and resonates with audiences familiar with emo, his genre-bending approach carves out a unique space within the indie landscape. Whether or not he fits neatly into the “Midwest emo” box, Alex G’s impact on modern indie music is undeniable, marked by his ability to evoke complex emotions and create a deeply personal connection with his listeners.
