INTERVIEW: Cindy Alexander drops new album

Cindy Alexander is an award-winning singer-songwriter affectionately known as ‘Pnut’ by her devoted fans as she graces the music scene with her extraordinary vocal prowess and fearless lyrical expression. Hailing from Los Angeles, Alexander’s musical journey is deeply rooted in her family’s musical heritage, with her grandma’s early encouragement leading her to become a powerful lyricist and a vocalist with an incredible range. Her ability to forge genuine connections with her audience, coupled with her undeniable stage presence, makes her a compelling artist with a unique sonic offering.

Having traversed the globe as an indie artist, winning over audiences in the USA, Asia, Europe and even far-flung locations like Barbados and Guantanamo Bay, Cindy Alexander’s journey has been guided by her fans, who have fervently supported her creative endeavours. In 2022, she signed a production deal with KZZ Music, setting the stage for the release of her brand new album, Messy, produced by the talented Paul Bushnell.

The album’s title captures the essence of life itself, and Alexander embraces this messiness with open arms. Messy unveils its sonic diversity through 10 distinct tracks, each offering a piece of the puzzle of alternative pop filtered through her original creative lens. The album opens with “Long Way to Go,” an enchanting track that weaves bright instrumental textures with Cindy’s emotive voice, delivering poignant storytelling through compelling melodies. The chorus introduces a shimmering indie pop soundscape, showcasing the artist’s ability to craft melodies that resonate deeply.

“Life #9” injects a groovy rhythm, underscored by a shuffling drum beat, as Cindy’s vocals float gracefully over a tapestry of soft guitar tones. The title track, “Messy,” shifts gears to embrace a smoky country rock ambiance, where brooding vocals intertwine with crunching guitars, culminating in an anthemic chorus.

Throughout the album, tracks like “House Without Windows” spotlight Cindy’s knack for delicate songwriting, crafting a soft ballad-style pop song that pairs vulnerability with captivating vocals. As the album draws to a close with “What We Got,” a gritty guitar riff kicks off, serving as the foundation for Cindy’s commanding vocals. The song evolves into a playful indie rock jam, brimming with punchy drums, guitars and organ lines, capturing the essence of the entire album in one final burst of energy.

Cindy Alexander’s Messy is an artistic odyssey that floats through different genres and emotions, guided by Alexander’s signature lyricism and infectious melodies. With the slick production of Paul Bushnell and the support of an all-star band, Cindy Alexander’s new record stands as a stunning demonstration of her exceptional songwriting and soulful, uninhibited vocals.

We caught up with Cindy to find out more about her musical journey so far, her new record Messy and what she’s got lined up for the future. Check out out interview with Cindy Alexander below.

Hey Cindy, how’s things?

Things have been a whirlwind lately! I finished the first two legs of my “Messy” tour, and now I have a few weeks off to catch up on emails, do laundry, play shuttle driver for my teenager twin daughters, remind my cat that I exist, and *try* to rest up a bit before I head back out on the road next month. Thanks for asking!

What’s your earliest memory of making music?

My first memory of making music is standing in my Mom’s walk-in closet, wearing her high heels and one of her nightgowns as a dress, holding her round blow dry brush like a microphone and singing “Your mama don’t dance and your daddy don’t rock n roll” into the full length mirror. (Your Mama Don’t Dance – Loggins & Messina). I got caught by my Mom and rather than scold me for taking her clothes, she encouraged me to put on the show for the guests downstairs. I was “bit by the bug” then and there, and I think I have been performing ever since! I participated in every talent show and school play after that.

Which artists do you draw most inspiration from today?

There are so many great young artists out there today, taking a lot of chances and producing records in their bedrooms – playing with sound and technology in ways that I never imagined. I didn’t have that kind of access or recording capabilities growing up, so I love watching the next generation take full advantage of it. Recently, I’ve been listening to Ethel Cain and Phoebe Bridgers. I’m a musical sponge – I soak in everything I hear. If I come across someone passionately making music, and their performance moves me, I’m inspired. And I certainly can’t turn away from the massive success of Taylor Swift, who took back control of her life and her music, and has turned the industry on its head. And she did it with grace! Originally, I was inspired by singer-songwriters from the 70’s (and still am), such as Joni Mitchell, Billy Joel, Bob Dylan, James Taylor, Fleetwood Mac, Carol King, Leonard Cohen, Cat Stevens, Neil Diamond, John Denver, etc. By the time I started writing, I was inspired (and still am) by the these female power houses – Alanis Morissette, Sarah McLachlan, Tori Amos, Aimee Mann, Liz Phair, Fiona Apple, Shawn Colvin, Sheryl Crow, Lucinda Williams, Mary Chapin Carpenter. But I can’t leave out Tom Petty, Rolling Stones, Beatles, David Bowie, Prince, Ben Folds… I could go on and on. My influences are all over the map! I know I will look back at this tomorrow and have at least 20 more artists and bands to add to the list.

How else do you find inspiration for your music?

Living life fully keeps me inspired. Getting out of the house, traveling, immersing myself in nature, meeting new people and hearing their stories, being truly present in the moment – there’s plenty of material out there just waiting to become a song.

What do you love about the Los Angeles music scene?

I actually just left the city that I grew up in and lived in my whole life. I moved to Big Sur during the pandemic. But, Los Angeles treated me well – I had the best of friends and a lot of success in that music scene. I love the small, intimate clubs like Hotel Cafe and the Mint, and the world famous Troubadour. There is a devoted audience that comes out to support me every time I play, and there is no shortage of talented musicians who also happen to be my dear friends. So, L.A. will always have a special place in my heart.

What would you say is the perfect setting for listeners to enjoy your sound?

Listen to my latest album, “Messy” while you’re on a road trip! It’s a trip in and of itself! I turn a lot of corners musically and change up tempo, vibe and subject matter – so I’ll keep your drive interesting 😉 I write a lot of my songs in my head while I’m driving, and then finish them up when I get home to my guitar or piano.

How has your own style and sound evolved since you started out?

I started out not caring what anyone thought – I was just making music that I wanted to play, and that I liked. When I started trying to fit in commercially (a mistake), I tried on a lot of different costumes, musically speaking. I listened to “professionals” telling me what I should be, who I should be, how I should be, etc. (another mistake). I’ve come full circle. I don’t give a sh*t what the Industry thinks – I make music that I love, with people that I love.

Stylistically, my music is a true reflection of exactly where I am in my life at the moment, and incorporates many years of musical experience and inspiration. I would say my latest album is a combination of rock and folk, with pop hooks and sensibilities. There is a roots quality as well – real people playing real instruments, layered here and there with some modern synth sounds. There’s also a bit of the California – Laurel Canyon vibe that I group up listening to – that writing style is ingrained in me. Lyrically – it’s a combination of simple truths, complex emotion, spirituality and word play. It’s almost as if my latest album is a more evolved, mature version of my very first. However, I hope one would find that I’m a considerably better songwriter and recording artist than I was when I started.

How did you find making your new album ‘Messy’?

It was pure joy making this album. My producer, Paul Bushnell, kept me laughing the entire time. I felt safe to try new things, take chances, and be myself. He was just as committed as I was to making a great record. And the band was a dream! Paul Bushnell on bass, Zac Rae on keys, David Levita on guitar, Thomas Lang on drums and Bernie Barlow on background vocals. What a privilege it was to be surrounded by that level of musicianship! They elevated the songs. I’ve known Zack Darling (engineer and mixer) for most of my career and trust him completely. So, having him around was a huge comfort.

What message did you want to get across with this release?

Life is messy, but we can make beautiful art out of it! There will always be bits of wisdom and comedy to be found in the chaos. The journey through it, is a journey to love.

What artist have you been listening to most recently?

Today I was listening to The Bacon Brothers – I’m joining them as the opening act for their Fall tour in a few weeks and wanted to catch up on their catalogue. It’s wonderful!!

What’s the main thing you want people to get out of listening to your music?

I hope that my songs become YOUR songs.

What’s been your favourite live performance so far?

Oh that’s hard. I’ve been performing and touring for over 20 years, and there have been sooooo many incredible experiences. I will say that although I’ve played huge festivals, civic centres and gorgeous theatres, my favourite shows are usually house concerts. I love the intimacy of those events. There IS one show I will never forget- it was at the Star Plaza Theatre in Merrillville, Indiana. It was so memorable because there was an unexpected time zone change and I was running late for the show in the middle of a snow storm. My clothes were hung up against a window and my top had turned to ice. I had to put it on and run on stage. I was hung over, it was Valentine’s Day and I was freeeeeeeezing! But, I gave one of the best performances of my life and sold out of my merch!

Who would be 3 artists to headline your dream festival? And where would it be?

Can I play my own festival? I’ve always wanted to play Red Rocks Amphitheater in Colorado. I’d love to do a show there with Ben Folds, Aimee Mann and… I’m gonna bring Tom Petty back from the heavenly orchestra and have him join us.

Do you have any advice for a new artist wanting to follow your footsteps?

Be Yourself. Stay Yourself. Creating and then monetising your music is very hard work. Being a working Artist means a LOT of behind the scenes marketing and business administration. You are the best at selling you, so don’t allow yourself to be excluded from the process. No one will work harder than you. Even if you have a manager, record label, agent…YOU still have to be in charge and do the work. Finally, as you move along your creative journey, continue to redefine what “success” means to you.

Finally, what do you have lined up for the rest of 2023?

I’ll be on tour in Texas, Washington DC, New York, Philadelphia, Virginia and California! I’ve also started writing for my next project, so stay tuned!
Tour dates: https://www.cindyalexander.com/tour-dates

Listen to Messy below