fbpx

Artist Review of Alex Jimenez by Guest Writer Victoria Boyington 

Alex Jimenez is a part of the early San Francisco Indie scene as a guitar player and singer-songwriter. Alex’s 2019 EP, Inside reflects his connection to the indie scene. Utilizing his bandmates from his other San Francisco based band ThunderEgg, and local musicians Lindy LaFontaine and Melissa Lyn. 

Inside contains a rich story of reflection and discovery. The lyrics throughout the EP were reflective of life, looking back and looking forward. The opening song, Thingamahoo, immediately brings listeners back to the 90’s reminiscent of bands such as R.E.M. and Ride with the overdriven guitar and clean tones. A perfect song for this time of change. The song has a feeling of hope and reflection. With the opening line, “When I was 12 I never realized what I should do, as long as I could play with that thingamahoo” using the reference to things done to pass the time. The overdriven guitar really brings the listener back to more peaceful days. 

The second song, Voices features local bohemian songstress, Lindy LaFontaine on keys with the Fender Rhodes sound provides the perfect layering of instrumentation. The lyric “the place where the past is present all one has to do is listen..” calls the listener to action with a lasting message of hope. 

My favorite song on the EP was Elana. Featuring Lindy LaFontaine on vocals, and singer-songwriter Melissa Lyn on harmonies. The female harmonies complimented Jimenez’s voice throughout the song. The instrumental build before the chorus really opens up the song bringing up the momentum. The weaving of vocals and guitar creates a great space for solos and instrumentation throughout the outro. The chorus allows the audience to sing along as it echoes, “It’s the story of my life”. 

Alex’s EP Inside was a creative mix of new and old. The overall sound was warm with an analog feel that makes each song inviting and engaging. He was able to utilize great guitar tones to capture the sound of the early 90”s, while his songwriting reflects our current times. What a great way to lose yourself this summer and find out what’s “inside”.

Alex Jimenez • alexjimenezmusic.com FacebookBandcamp

__

Balanced Breakfast is helping bands get reviewed by offering to connect you with other artists that are interested in trading music reviews. If this sounds interesting to you please fill out our APPLICATION FORM.

About the author

Victoria is a singer-songwriter, Women’s Advocate, Special Education Educator, and Non-Profit Founder of California Women’s Music Festival, the only non-profit women’s music festival in California that features an all-womxn staff, crew and line up. She has a Masters Degree in Education, CSU, Stanislaus.