Alex O’ Conner – better known as Rex Orange County – released his fourth studio album “WHO CARES?” Friday, March 11. The last album he released, “Pony,” peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard Top 200. This album does feature explicit songs, so listeners should be aware before listening. This album also features an array of genres, as Rex continues to expand his musical muscles to reach audiences unlike any artist before.

“KEEP IT UP”

As I’ve already written a whole review about this wonderful song, I’ll go ahead and link it here, as my review stays the same. It’s classic, it’s catchy and it fits the overall vibe of this album.

“OPEN A WINDOW (feat. Tyler, The Creator)”

Never a fail, this collaboration with Tyler is one of the strongest songs off the album. The two artists have also worked together on “Boredom,” a song from Tyler, The Creator’s album “Flower Boy.” “OPEN A WINDOW” features a laid-back sound with lyrics that talk about wanting to escape from quarantine and lockdown, and move onto new, better things. The smooth transition to Tyler’s part is seamless, and works well. This was one of my favorites.

“WORTH IT”

The regal and instrumental beginning of this song is completely unique, and I loved it from the first beat. One of the shorter songs from the album, fans will be left wanting more. When the beat kicks in around a minute into the song, the pace is immediately picked up, and, while the lyrics are about being a pessimist, the beat will leave you bouncing your head.

“AMAZING”

This song reminded me a lot of “Loving is Easy” another Rex song, so that’s why I felt like it wasn’t one of the stronger songs off the album. It’s definitely an upbeat and uplifting song about the person of Rex’s intentions, telling them how they’re so “amazing” and they don’t need to change a thing about themselves. I don’t think it deserves a skip, but fans might not enjoy this song as much, as it follows a repetitive nature and sound.

“ONE IN A MILLION”

This song almost has a jazz undertone to it. It’s strong, chill and holds a repetition that works for the song. The song is rare, and these darker undertones to the song can be seen in later songs, as well.

“IF YOU WANT IT”

This electronic dance beat is very unique to the discography of Rex, and I’m welcoming it. This song is fun and bright, as the lyrics talk about Rex pining for a girl, saying, “I can’t wait at all, let me be your boy / If you want it / There’s no good reason not to love if you want it.” This was immediately added to my playlist after listening.

“7AM”

The bright and poppy piano beginning of this song grabs your attention right away. I feel like this song is pretty different than the usual Rex release, but still sounds familiar enough to be enjoyed by his entire audience. In “7AM,” Rex thinks out loud and airs out his doubts about his career to his audience. This song really does remind me of waking up early on a bright, sunny morning, and Rex has used this air of comfort to share what he’s nervous about.

“THE SHADE”

This song is all about Rex being with a long-term partner, taking specific care of their relationship because it means so much to him, saying “I would love just to be stuck by your side.” The chorus is catchy, but slightly repetitive. This song is not one of my favorites, as I feel like it would be stronger if there was a new twist in the song toward the end.

“MAKING TIME”

The violin intro of this song is very classic, and reminds me of “It’s Been a Long, Long Time.” This song is short, but totally sweet.

“SHOOT ME DOWN”

The beginning of this song is extremely different than Rex’s sound, featuring dark, smooth and rich tastes of the beat. I feel like it’s the polar opposite of Rex’s hit “Pluto Projector,” but that doesn’t mean that it isn’t any less beautiful and meaningful. This is my absolute favorite from this album, despite some criticism from other sources. I feel like it’s beautifully sad, and the overall instrumental is effortlessly catchy.

“WHO CARES?”

This final song, as the namesake of the album, is the perfect wrap. The song starts from a place of doubt, and feelings of social anxiety as Rex questions why he cares about the opinions of others. But, by the second verse, “WHO CARES?” turns more into a statement, as Rex reflects on all the people that care about him, and people that he knows “who care.” This lyrical and laid-back song is similar to most of Rex’s sounds, and could be left on repeat for everyone to appreciate.

Overall Opinion

This album has a little something for everyone, and no one could really be disappointed from every song – I know I’m not at all. While a few of the songs are a little repetitive and make up the lows, there’s lots of success on Rex’s behalf, and I’d completely recommend this album to anyone. The evolution of Rex’s sound is only beginning, with this as a beautiful first step. Over half of these songs are currently on my “March ’22” Spotify playlist. I’d rate this overall album as an 8/10, and, as I work to see Rex Orange County in person as he begins his tour this spring, I cannot wait to see Rex’s future projects – along with more fame for his hard work and talent.