ReeToxA – Dancing With Lou (2026)
Singer-songwriter Jason McKee – the brain behind ReeToxA – offers music that delves into the complexity of human experiences through personal narratives. To date, however, the songs tended to lie in stories of romantic relationships regardless of the flimsiness or seriousness of each. ‘The Lisa Song’ was about a girl named Lisa who inspired McKee’s musical journey, and the more recent ‘You Deserve Better Than Me’ was about a failed Tinder date with… I don’t think we actually knew her name. ‘Dancing With Lou’ is somewhat different.
The song’s not about a message behind someone called Louise, Lorraine or Lulabelle; it’s about musician Lou Reed. I’m not saying there’s a romantic relationship in the mix, but it does unpack some coming-of-age confessions. Following ‘Demand Perfection’, ‘Dancing With Lou’ “chronicles a pivotal moment from McKee’s teenage years when, at fifteen, a friend’s father introduced him to Lou Reed’s solo work…. That transformative listening session – complete with vinyl, conversation, and the unfiltered honesty of adolescence – opened an entirely new sonic universe… in 1995’s grunge-dominated landscape. Reed’s influence liberated McKee to write without censorship, exploring any topic with fearless vulnerability.”
Produced by Simon Moro, the single is one that has you jiving from the outset. Imagine yourself strutting about, dancing in the jiggliest way you can, and this is ‘Dancing With Lou’. Peter Marin’s drums bring a crazy beat, while Kit Riley’s bass bounces along with a simultaneous seriousness and carefree fun. James Ryan’s guitar flies across the track, carrying it out into the soundscape while retaining a heavier rock attitude. Jason McKee leads the song with his warm, rich vocals, grabbing you, twirling you about, and setting a smile on your face.
At only two-and-a-half minutes, ‘Dancing With Lou’ is far too short. Then again, would something lengthier have the same punch? In my opinion, I was just hoping for more jazzed-up rock and roll with infectious lyrics where I couldn’t help but sing along. A mention of ReeToxA currently working on his third album is exciting, and I cannot wait for more! Until then, I’ll keep dancing with Lou.
Find out more about ReeToxA on their official website, Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
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