Alex Winston may be one of the most underrated pop musicians of this generation. I first saw her perform live three years ago at a dive bar in London, where she and her band burst with fearless energy and impossibly dynamic talent. The Detroit native is able to write classic yet fresh melodies that’ll give you a sugar rush, but her brand of pop is more indie-folk inspired than bubblegum.
It’s not too surprising that Winston is classically trained in opera, but that doesn’t mean she’s toned down her mighty pipes. Her rich harmonies and unconventional vocal style have earned her comparisons to Joanna Newsom, though Winston undoubtedly has a voice very much her own. The songstress is able to pare down any fluff with ease, crafting hopelessly gut-wrenching songs that expose such raw emotion that you may find yourself sobbing into your drink at the bar right after dancing your face off to the previous song.
In 2011 Winston released her Sister Wife EP, followed the next year by her debut full-length King Con. It’d be an understatement to tell you that I listen to both records on repeat, so believe me when I say that I can’t stop, won’t stop with pretty much anything Alex creates. I’m basically dying of anticipation to hear whatever she puts out next, but I at least have a kickass live show to look forward to until then.
Lucky for you NYC-based readers, we’re giving away two pairs of tickets to that show. Next Saturday, May 31st at Le Poisson Rouge, Alex will be sure to put on a show not to be forgotten alongside Neighbors and Lolo. Doors are at 6pm, show time is 6:30, 18+.
Wanna win? Send an email with your full name to [email protected]. We’ll pick a winner on Tuesday, 5/27 at noon.
Photos by Shervin Lainez
