Combining plucky optimism and ironic pop-punk quips, Australia’s Alex Lahey creates classic fuzz-addled songs that get right up in your face. Her latest release The Answer Is Always Yes is no exception but it also showcases the full extent of her songwriting chops, swinging from gritty punk moments to more celestial cosmic wanderings. Life can be a drag but Lahey is not about to let that hold her back.

And we were lucky enough to hear from the immensely talented artist about her influences:

Three favourite albums:

Paramore – Self Titled

Paramore is perhaps my favourite band of all time and I feel like this record cemented them as more than just part of a movement, but a movement of their own. Over the pandemic I did a bit of formal study in audio engineering and production and used this album as a case study for an assignment. It was awesome to get under the hood and find out more about how it was made, which only made me appreciate it more.

Washington – I Believe You Liar

I think this record is one of the greatest ever Australian albums, and for it to be a debut is honestly remarkable. Great songs, great musicianship and a whole lot of spirit packed into the same package. It reminds me of driving my 1999 blue Toyota Corolla to university when I was 18 years old.

The Subways – Young For Eternity

I’ve recently come to revisit this album and have been reminded how much I love it. It’s crazy how much our brains retain – I could sing all the words to every single song on my first listen in over 15 years. I love how janky this record sounds – it’s not overdone and has so much character. Rock & Roll Queen is a modern classic.

 Favourite film:

COCO – Lee Unkrich

This Pixar movie has perhaps the most accurate depiction of what I believe happens after we die. It all comes down to the importance of memory and how we preserve the memory of those we love. The first time I watched this movie was on a plane and I was SOBBING 40,000 ft in the air.

Favourite Book:

On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous – Ocean Vuong

My partner’s mum got this book for me for Christmas a couple of years ago and it was a true gift. Some of the best prose in recent times. I think this book will go down in history as one of the pillars of queer literature for years to come.

A song that means a lot to you:

Michelle Branch – Everywhere

This song was the first ever song I learned how to play on guitar. So without it, I probably wouldn’t be doing what I’m doing now. Thanks Michelle – you’re the fucking best.

If you’d like to support us by subscribing to our zine, click here – it’s just £6 a year for four copies (inc p&p).