Coming from the long-running output of Melbourne’s rock scene, ReeToxA represents a return to creative expression for musician Jason McKee. After nearly three decades immersed in music, the project acts like a rediscovery, a moment where past influences, experience and renewed passion collide with the original excitement that first pushed him toward music in the mid-1990s.
The emotional power and distorted intensity of bands such as Nirvana and Pixies helped shape Jason’s early musical worldview. The explosion of grunge and alternative rock during that time represented rebellion, emotional honesty and a sense of energy that still ripples through his music today. In many ways, the project represents a personal recalibration; after decades spent balancing music and life, Jason approached ReeToxA as a way of reconnecting with the emotional context that originally drew him toward songwriting.
The first taste of that renewed creative direction arrived with the debut single “Bobbie” a track which introduced ReeToxA with a surge of emotional energy, signalling the arrival of a project able to lean into vulnerability while still delivering the punch of guitar-driven rock. That single soon led into the debut album Pines Salad, a record developed in collaboration with producer Simon Moro as well as bassist Kit Riley, guitarist James Ryan and drummer Peter Marin.
Following the momentum of the debut album, ReeToxA now moves toward its next chapter with an ambitious second full-length release. The upcoming record expands significantly in scope, featuring twenty-six tracks that continue exploring the emotional and sonic spheres introduced in Pines Salad. Offering the first showcase of the new record is the lead single titled “Thrift Shop Dress,” a track that captures the spontaneous spark of inspiration that often drives Jason’s songwriting.
The song gently takes shape with the intricate groove of lightly gritty guitar lines before bursting to life with punching drums and smooth vocal leads, delivering a lively rock energy that immediately grabs attention. Rolling with uptempo energy and instantly catchy hooks, the track recounts the tale of an ordinary moment. While heading to band rehearsal in the Melbourne suburb of Brunswick, Jason noticed a striking woman across the street.
The encounter lasted only a moment, but it was enough to ignite his imagination and the idea for the song arrived almost instantly, forming so quickly that he wrote it within minutes. That sense of impulsive creativity carries directly into the track itself and “Thrift Shop Dress” channels the awkward excitement of seeing someone you want to approach but not knowing how to begin.
Packed full of memorable melodic writing and propelled by invigorating rock energy, “Thrift Shop Dress” serves up an epic jam that’s sure to win over new and existing listeners around the world. With his highly anticipated sophomore record on the horizon, 2026 is shaping up to be another thrilling year for ReeToxA and his compelling musical offering.
We caught up with ReeToxA to find out more about his musical journey so far, his new single “Thrift Shop Dress” and what he’s got lined up for the future. Check out our interview with ReeToxA below.
Hey ReeToxA, how’s things?
Exciting times! First single doing well and new album out very soon!
Can you tell us a bit about how your journey into music first began?
I first started recording myself singing back in the 1980’s! I found it fascinating and so much fun!
What first inspired you to start writing and recording your own songs?
My first song was amber off the first record! I was so frustrated that the song burst out and I had been doing it ever since!
How has your songwriting evolved over the years?
I am much quicker now and force myself to finish the song in the moment.
What inspired your new single “Thrift Shop Dress”?
After releasing my first album I noticed a lot of north side girls Melbourne in my people you may know section. While I was walking to three phase rehearsal studios for band practice I saw this girl smoking and looking in a thrift shop window. I wondered how to talk to her and the song came hurtling through my head.
How did your imagination shape the story behind Thrift Shop Dress?
I imagined meeting the girl! A lot of imagination in this song!
What was it about that moment that made you feel it had to become a song?
When a song comes quickly into my subconscious I stop everything and finish the song. Music comes first these days.
Musically, how would you describe the sound and energy of the single?
It’s an indie rock banger! You want to sing and dance along!
What made this track stand out as the lead single from the album?
The album is stacked with singles but this track makes me want to dance and sing! Very proud of the song!
Your new album features 26 tracks, which is a huge project. What inspired you to create such an ambitious record?
Just before covid I was talking with producer Simon Moro about recording my first album. When lockdown happened I was so bored I started the second album. Some songs like bottle are 31 years old and thrift shop dress is 7 months old. It’s like a story of my life from 15 to 47.
How long did it take to write and record the album?
I lived off coffee and cigarettes writing this album and pushed myself so hard I ended up in hospital. I just couldn’t stop! Recording of the music took 12 days and vocals six!
Were there any particular challenges in creating such a large body of work?
I was nervous asking Simon Moro to take on the project but he could hear what I did! He even added European orchestra strings to five of the songs which was a mind blowing experience!
Do you have any personal favourite tracks on the album that fans should keep an ear out for?
I love the Lisa song the most as I met her at a spiderbait concert and she asked me what do I do? I’d just dropped out of uni and had no songs to show her. She inspired me to get my act together. Erica and the stars is an epic song, it will blow minds. I do love the whole album though I hope people sit down and listen to the whole thing with a nice drink.
How do you feel this album compares to your previous work as ReeToxA?
Everyone was blown away with the new album, the band and producer all said it was my best work.
What do you hope listeners discover about you as an artist when they hear the new album?
I hope I finally get a live band together and become a part of the Australian and world music scenes.
Looking ahead, what does this album represent for you at this stage of your musical journey?
I think it’s going to launch my career. Nothing will stop me.
Listen to Thrift Shop Dress below
More from Interviews
INTERVIEW: TATE SEDAR drops “Take It All Back”
Born in San Francisco, raised in London and now based in Los Angeles, TATE SEDAR has spent much of his …
INTERVIEW: Cinematic conceptual album from INYO
Coming out of Los Angeles, newcomer INYO is an artist whose musical vision is informed by a desire to explore …
INTERVIEW: Brand new single from Thomas Azier
Dutch singer, composer and producer Thomas Azier has spent the last twelve years making an impression in the European music …
