Melbourne-based band ReeToxA is the project created by Jason McKee, a seasoned songwriter whose journey into the spotlight has been truly unique. A student of the 90s alternative rock school, he first picked up the pen in 1995 when inspired by the music of Nirvana. His path since has been a slow-burning one; years of songwriting in private, near-mythical brushes with legends like Jeff Buckley and a persistent need to finally share his voice.
That moment has arrived, and it’s been well worth the wait. ReeToxA officially burst onto the scene with his debut single “Bobbie,” quickly followed by the full-length Pines Salad, a record produced by Simon Moro that wasted no time showing off the scope of Jason McKee’s creative vision. The album leans into chaos and control in equal measure, fusing the fuzz-soaked textures of Pixies and the grit of White Stripes with the emotive songwriting of Elliott Smith. It’s a wild ride, but one that feels profoundly personal, like rifling through someone’s diary and finding poems that sound like anthems.
At the heart of ReeToxA’s sound is a tension between vulnerability and volume, melody and menace. Every track off Pines Salad exists in its own world, no recycled formulas, no predictable arcs. It’s this refusal to be boxed in that makes his debut feel like the kind of record that couldn’t have been made until now. It carries the weight of years, yet it thrashes with the energy of someone with everything still to prove.
Now, ReeToxA returns with his latest release with the new single titled “You,” a heartbreak-soaked rock song that dials in on pop appeal without losing an ounce of impact. Inspired by the emotional wreckage of the artist’s own divorce, the track captures the hollow finality of knowing a relationship is over. But rather than retreat into despair, “You” channels that sorrow into a soaring, cathartic sound that clings to your memory.
Opened by the soft plucks of guitar, the taps of percussion and emotive vocal leads enter above the hushed echo of organ to craft a moving indie rock sound. Gliding with blissful melodies and aching emotion, the chorus launches into a bright rock jam packed full of grooving rhythm and instantly catchy hooks, resulting in a stunning jam that deftly balances thoughtful songwriting with driving rock energy.
Blending the melancholic weight of its subject matter with a driving rhythm section and a chorus made to be shouted in the car at night, “You” hits the sweet spot between classic 90s alternative and modern melodic rock. It’s personal yet instantly relatable, the kind of track that finds you when you’re hurting and sings the words you can’t. Going from strength to strength since making his recent introduction this year, ReeToxA is fast becoming a must watch artist.
We caught up with ReeToxA to find out more about his musical journey so far, his new single “You” and what he’s got lined up for the future. Check out our interview with ReeToxA below.
Hey ReeToxA, how’s things?
Things are great I’m so busy with the album!
What’s your earliest memory of making music?
I remember recording myself onto my boom box back in the 1980’s when I was a kid with mixed results. I loved it though.
What inspired you to pursue a career in music?
I have wanted to be a musician since I wrote amber in 1995. It kept eating away at me in the back of my mind. I decided to finally pull the plug and get stuck into it.
How has your own style and sound evolved since you started out?
I started out pure alternative only but I have adapted to modern music now as well. Insta life Donna is a good mix of old and new I think.
What is your favourite part about being a musician?
I love hearing my songs in the radio or seeing g people are listening to my songs in Spotify for artists. Getting feed back of liking my songs is great too. The thrill of singing live is hard to beat.
How did you find making your new single “You”?
You was the first song I wrote that I thought, this could be a hit. Time will tell if this is true but it makes the touchy subject of divorce and break up’s a catchy way to dance and sing a long.
You recently released your debut album ‘Pines Salad,’ what was the creative process like for that?
It is a timeline of my song writing over 30 years and many blood sweat and tears went into it. Memory’s come flooding back when I hear or think about it.
Did you find any challenges in making a full-length record?
No I had expert help and guidance from my peer network. The hardest part was choosing which songs out of thousands I have written.
What artist have you been listening to most recently?
Chapelle Roan and Tropical Fuck Storm are in high rotation with me at the moment.
Do you have any advice for a new artist wanting to follow your footsteps?
Save your money hard and back yourself! You don’t have to do everything alone.
Finally, what do you have lined up for the rest of the year?
On Wednesday I’m starting demos for my second album and I’m getting a live band together to start a tour.
Listen to You below
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