The time has come that I got the opportunity to see Rex Orange County perform in my town, Tampa, Fla., on Oct. 27 at Straz Center, and his performance left me on cloud 9 and leaving with post-concert depression.
Alexander O’Connor, better known as Rex Orange County, is known for his blended hip-hop and jazz music. His most recent album, “The Alexander Technique”, was released on Sept. 6 of this year. His “Finally” tour followed his new album, which consisted of a perfect mix of old and new songs from many albums, such as “Pony,” “Apricot Princess,” “Bcos U Will Never Be Free,” “WHO CARES?” and, of course, his newest album.
He opened his show by walking out and singing “Alexander” while recreating the lyrics in the song with props of a doctor’s office and an actor dressed up as a doctor “speaking” to him. It was a different and interesting way to open up the show. The lights turned off and he began singing “Therapy” and confused faces washed the crowd, mine included, as he was no longer on the stage anymore. We noticed him standing in the Orchestra section to our right and he walked up and down the aisles singing the song; It felt surreal witnessing him sing so close.
After he finished “Therapy” O’Connor began the rest of his show on the stage with the curtains opening up showing his band and the stage which was a cabin looking house and a window that changed depending on the song.
He played a couple more songs such as “Guitar Song,” “2008,” “THE SHADE,” “Pure,” “Always” and “Jealousy.” Hearing “THE SHADE” and “Always” was so amazing to hear live and I enjoyed the rest of these songs as well I just wasn’t too familiar with them all.
Then followed one of my favorites and one I was hoping to hear, “Happiness.” O’Connor’s stage presence is one not all possess. It’s impressive to hear how identical he sounds to his songs and how his backdrops match the vibe of whatever song he’s singing. He sounded perfect during “Happiness” and then went to singing an oldie “Paradise.” O’Connor expressed how long it’s been since he’s sung the song so hearing it live and in person for Tampa’s Night 2 surprise song was so amazing and unreal.
After my favorites came the classics, “Sunflower,” “Best Friend” and “Television/So Far So Good.” Hearing these live was like no other. The energy in the room, especially our section in the Orchestra, was electrifying. I attended with one of my best friends so hearing them live with her was memorable and indescribable.
After a high, O’Connor brought back a chiller vibe by playing “The Table,” Look Me in the Eyes,” “New Years” and “Finally.”
Like almost any artist on the planet, O’Connor made a fake exit until he came back to play another classic “4 Seasons” and as an encore played one of if not his most popular songs “Pluto Projector.”
Like the rest of the concert hearing this live was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, the instrumental of the song and the lyricism and everything about the song is beautiful so hearing it in person made me emotional as it’s been a favorite for years now. His voice did not disappoint and his encore was one to remember.
Overall the setlist was great as it ranged through his whole demographic and the order was well balanced between chill songs and energetic ones. I wish Rex Orange County to return back to Tampa soon but if he doesn’t, I will say I don’t regret attending and give it 100 stars out of 5 and recommend anyone else who’s a fan to consider attending.
