INTERVIEW: ReeToxA shares “Avocet Court”

Forged by the influence of alternative rock’s golden era, ReeToxA is the latest chapter in Melbourne-based songwriter Jason McKee’s decades-long relationship with music. For those just discovering his work, it might seem as though he’s suddenly arrived, but the origins of this project trace back nearly 30 years. First picking up the pen in 1995, he came of age in the grunge era, when bands like Nirvana defined a generation and garage speakers blasted with emotion and distortion.

That formative period left an significant impression and though life may have steered him away from the spotlight, his passion never dimmed. With ReeToxA, that long-burning fire has finally been given a voice. The project’s opening statement came with the release of his debut single “Bobbie,” a track that introduced Jason McKee as an artist able to instil powerful emotional into his songwriting. Poignant and personal, it teed up his first full-length record, Pines Salad, a collaboration with Australian producer Simon Moro.

The album established ReeToxA’s sonic identity, pairing jagged textures with melodic edge in a way that calls to mind Pixies-era alternative rock while still offering something thoroughly new. Alongside bassist Kit Riley, guitarist James Ryan and drummer Peter Marin, Jason’s music bristles with the energy of a live band while carrying the scars and stories of his own journey. While much of Pines Salad channels the energy and swagger of alternative rock at its most engaging, it also carries moments of tenderness and reflection.

His recent single “Avocet Court,” lifted from the album, offers one of the most vulnerable window yet into his songwriting. Where other tracks shake with distortion and driving rhythm, this one slows down into ballad territory, allowing space for the story to breathe. Inspired by a difficult time in his past, the song reflects on the tension between personal dreams and societal expectations. Jason recalls a period when he was struggling both at home and at school, feeling pulled toward a life as an artist while facing constant pressure to conform. At one point, the weight of it all became so heavy that he considered running away to Sydney, but he never found the courage to follow through.

Set up by the bright plucks of guitar, intricately strummed rhythms and soft shuffle of rustling drums, ReeToxA’s graceful vocals glide in to spin delicate melodies above. Threading heartfelt lyrics into the gentle musical fabric, the song flows with smooth rhythmic sway and alluring melodic songwriting, resulting in a truly charming sound that’s truly impossible not to love.

Showcasing a different side to the ReeToxA sound, “Avocet Court” takes a meaningful memory from the artist’s life and casts it into a delightful musical moment for everyone to enjoy. Once again revealing the range of his superb musical output, ReeToxA continues to impress as an exciting new artistic project that’s been a lifetime in the making.

We caught up with ReeToxA to find out more about his new single “Avocet Court,” his inspirations and what he’s got in store next. Check out our interview with ReeToxA below.

Your new single “Avocet Court” has an intriguing title, can you share the story or inspiration behind the name?

Avocet court is the name of the street I grew up in carrum downs, Frankston. All the streets are named after birds.

How does “Avocet Court” reflect where you are right now in your artistic journey compared to your other recent work?

Avocet court is a 30 year old song that we injected a bit of life into in the studio. I feel it’s still relevant today for young people or adults feeling they are in an isolated area or wanting to escape their current life. Adding the mandolin gave it a beautiful quality that makes me want to go back in time and tell 15 year old me everything’s going to be ok.

What was the spark that kicked this track into life?

I would wake up, have a hard time at home and then get to school, have a hard time there then get home and have another hard time. My guitar and writing poems kept me alive and going.

What emotions or themes were you aiming to capture with this release?

Hoping to help anyone feeling this way, and to inspire them to find a creative outlet, or any type of outlet from the mundane.

Who were some of the influences that shaped your direction on this single?

In the studio I got a faith no more / smashing pumpkins vibe. With a splash of rem. I was definitely listening to them in 1995 when I wrote it.

As an artist, how do you balance rock energy with crafting songs that feel meaningful?

I have always liked artists that show their softer / feminine side. Not everything has to be power chords.

What have been some of the biggest challenges and breakthroughs in developing your sound and identity as ReeToxA?

Finding musicians to form a live band is tricky, but I’m hoping we will tour this album soon. The cost of being an unsigned artist are astronomical so keeping a budget is tough. But it brings me so much joy I can’t stop.

Looking ahead, what can fans expect next from you next?

I am currently in pre production for my second album coming out soon. We are recording in October and it’s a double album with 26 tracks ! If you like the first album you will love the second.

Listen to Avocet Court below