Alx - Hither Hills (Official Video)

Emerging New York City singer-songwriter Alx was born into a world of music. Her journey began with classical training on the violin at the tender age of 6, performing at festivals and concerts worldwide. Her early introduction to the performing arts paved the way for a lifelong passion for music, and her career took an exciting turn when she became a member of the St. Patrick's Cathedral Youth Choir, gracing churches across the country and performing for Pope Benedict XVI during his 2008 visit to New York.

While rooted in classical music, Alx's diverse musical upbringing included influences from Albanian, Balkan, and Arabic genres, as well as a deep love for New York's hip-hop and R&B scene of the 90s and early 2000s. Over the past three years, Alx has been meticulously developing a sound that reflects her authentic self and her rich cultural heritage. In collaboration with her brother, David, she embarked on a journey to bring together these diverse influences, recording her first records in their studio. Alx's music is a deeply personal journey, drawing from her experiences from childhood to adulthood, and she shares vulnerability and honesty in her records, hoping to inspire others to live authentically.

Her debut single, ‘Hither Hills,’ offers a hypnotic blend of hip-hop, electronic, and pop rap elements, exemplifying her unique sonic identity. The track opens with an intoxicating synth line, with Alx seamlessly transitioning between singing and rapping. Her versatile vocal range, captivating melodies, and smooth flow take centre stage, while the dark and brooding production provides the perfect backdrop for her artistry.

The influence of Albanian and Arabic music is woven throughout the track, subtly enhancing its distinctive hip-hop sound. Towards the end, ‘Hither Hills’ erupts into a vibrant blend of Arabian hip-hop, adding a groovy and mesmerising quality to the song. Alx repeats the chorus melodies in a chilled yet haunting manner, leaving a lasting impression.