INTERVIEW: Alternative Rock from ReeToxA

Born out of the fire of alternative rock’s classic era, ReeToxA is the newest iteration of Melbourne songwriter Jason McKee’s lifelong journey with music. While the name may feel new to some ears, Jason’s connection to songwriting stretches back nearly thirty years. Picking up the pen back in 1995, his formative years unfolded against the backdrop of the grunge explosion, when acts like Nirvana captured a generation’s angst and garage bands poured emotion into distorted amplifiers.

Those sounds left a lasting imprint on the budding artist and even as life pulled him away from the spotlight, his passion never faded. With ReeToxA, that long-simmering energy has now finally erupted into something exciting and real. The project’s introduction arrived with debut single “Bobbie,” a track that immediately marked Jason as an artist able to fuse poignant storytelling with gripping sound and it paved the way for his first full-length album Pines Salad, crafted alongside Australian producer Simon Moro.

The record revealed his fully formed identity as ReeToxA, pairing jagged textures and melodic edges into something that echoed the dynamism of Pixies-era alternative rock, tinged by nostalgia but facing firmly forward. Supported by bassist Kit Riley, guitarist James Ryan and drummer Peter Marin, Jason channels the full force of a live band, turning personal scars and stories into an epic rock sound. For every burst of swaggering alternative rock energy, there are moments of vulnerability that pull the listener closer, offering a balance that feels earned from years of artistic expression.

From the record, the single titled “Humbug” exemplifies the project’s ability to channel grit into something both raucous and heartfelt. With an alternative rock backbone and a delivery wrapped in 70s swagger, the track emerged from a chance moment of inspiration; after enduring the disillusionment of modern dating apps and giving up hope, Jason found himself unexpectedly inspired by a musician he met at his rehearsal studio and though the connection was one-sided, the experience sparked something creative.

A slip while playing scales on his guitar produced a riff that instantly stood out and while sitting on the sofa during a six-hour solo session, he wrote the bones of “Humbug” in just 45 seconds, stunned by the song that had spilled out so quickly. James Ryan’s guitar work took that initial riff even further, twisting and expanding it into a crunchy rock anthem while Jason’s commanding vocal performance stitches memorable melodic threads throughout.

Propelled by the steady punch of marching drums, the hazy riff-driven arrangement flows with impact, cut with the twang of intricate lead notes, reaching a rousing solo in the finale. Distilling the enduring sound of his classic rock influences into an bold outing for a modern audience, “Humbug” sees ReeToxA lean into a powerful sound with spectacular results.

We caught up with ReeToxA to find out more about his musical journey so far, his inspirations and his single “Humbug.” Check out our interview with ReeToxA below.

What first drew you into music and when did you realise you wanted to pursue it as ReeToxA?

I wrote amber off the first record when I was 15 and tried to start a band writing hundred of songs. My life went pear shaped and I run off to the navy. After the navy I decided to make an album, but life got I. The way for ten years. Now I’m fully committed to music full time. I have never been happier.

How has your artistic background shaped the sound and identity you bring into your work today?

Over the years I have gone from pure grunge / alternative to broadening my horizons and music taste. I wanted to Chanel my love of the 90’s but bring it into the modern era !

Rock can take on so many forms, what do you feel defines your personal take on the genre?

I like songs that make you want to jump up and down or dance. I think we achieved that with our great drummer Peter. Rock keeps on evolving and we try to keep up with that while maintaining our roots.

Who are some of the artists or experiences that have influenced the way you write and perform music today?

I love Lou reed especially his solo career. I have nearly all his albums on vinyl. Kurt cobain was my hero and I love Eddie Vedder. I love personal heart felt lyrics that tell story’s.

What’s the story behind your new single “Humbug”?

I had some bad dating experiences and swore off dating apps and bar hook ups to find the one. I met this amazing woman but I was shy and it did not work out. She worked at the studio I was jamming in and I was practicing am pentatonic when I made a mistake and then the main riff came out. The melodies and lyrics came pouring out and I ended up writing the song in a few minutes. I was shaking at the end it was a powerful experience.

Was there a particular moment or inspiration that sparked the creation of “Humbug”?

I think it was seeing the girl and her dog just before I played guitar in the book room at the studio.

What was the recording process like for this track?

James the guitarist took my riff and expanded it for the outro. They extended it a fair bit and I was in awe of the musicians Jaming out my song. I begged Simon Moro our producer to keep it as is with no fade outs.

What do you hope listeners feel or take away when they hear your music?

I hope they can feel hope that the right person will come along. Also those in relationships remind them how touch being single is.

How do your personal experiences and background find their way into your lyrics or sound?

Sometimes I’ll write a song from no where and be like, oh that’s how I feel. My subconscious is way more aware and powerful than my present day presence lol.

If you could collaborate with any artist, past or present, who would it be and why?

I’d love to make an album like Berlin with Lou reed about an Australian town.

Listen to Humbug below