Reetoxa is a musical project by Melbourne singer-songwriter Jason Mckee, combining 2 songs from very personal moments of his life. This Double A Side 2 features two songs (Akaroa / Erica And The Stars) that couldn’t be more different, but also have a similar quality of honesty that permeates Reetoxa’s music.
Opening with bright guitar strumming and catchy beat, contrasts with the personal story behind “Akaroa”. The vocals on the song, sung by Mckee, remain melodic and accessible, allowing for some contemplation by the listener of the memories and emotions that lie behind them. The song came back to him years after his initial dream of it, adding a historical flavor to the track.
“Erica And The Stars” takes a more serious turn. The bottom strings and the steady beats add weight to the mix, giving Mckee’s contemplative voice the spotlight. The Budapest Orchestra takes another dimension to the song, contributing the orchestral sound he imagined in creating it for the final recording.
The thing that impresses me on both tracks is how Mckee is able to take some harsh times and make them music, while also not losing the musical aspect in the songs. Catchy moments throughout, strong instrumentation and clear emotion. “Double A Side 2” is “personal,” but it also provides something for the listener to which to relate beyond the stories that inspired it.
