By Jessica Jones, Staff Writer
[Photo courtesy of Rex Orange County/Universal Music Publishing Group]

British recording artist and songwriter Rex Orange County released a surprise single on Valentine’s Day titled “New House”, the musician’s first original song release since late 2017. Rex announced the song on instagram, where he also left a message to his fans, thanking them and confirming that new music is in the works.

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The single features the classic Rex Orange County sound: a faster, upbeat intro paired with a synth-inspired rap section.

The lyrics share insight on Rex’s personal life and the fact that his newfound fame hasn’t been the easiest on him. The muses for this song appear to be his girlfriend, Thea, as well as struggles with inspiration and motivation.

Rex Orange County’s second and latest studio album, 2017’s Apricot Princess, won hearts across the globe with his lovesick and love-song anthems. Each of the songs on that album fit into a very specific style, always including both a fast and slow portion.

With only two albums under his belt, Rex is still finding his voice and perfecting his sound. He is only 19 years old, though his impressive breakthrough into the industry – thanks to the help of Tyler, The Creator, who featured Rex on multiple songs on his record Flower Boy – has created a large following of fans.

If there is a new Rex Orange County album in store for release in 2019, it’s likely to exhibit more of this experimental sound.

Check out “New House”, the single, below: