Image: Dannydraxx

Australia’s indie-electro-dark pop queen CXLOE has returned with new single ‘Close’, her third single of the year following up the heartbreaking ballad ‘Cry & Drive’ and the genre-defying ‘Soft Rock’.

Written by CXLOE and Eric Leva (Kesha, Celeste) and produced by Sammy Witte (King Princess, Harry Styles, Isaac Dunbar) ‘Close’ is a mesmerising track which skilfully blends dark, heavy beats with moments of shimmering electro and CXLOE’s almost ethereal vocal which conveys a range of emotions from angst to frustration.

The track is a favourite of CXLOE’s and details the struggles many artists go through when trying to establish their career. “‘Close’ was written during a time in my life I was continuously putting myself out there but getting nothing in return,” she says. “The song is about the struggle of wanting to commit to something or someone but they’re not ready to make the jump for you. From my perspective, I was being flown around the world to meet with record labels in which I gave my all, but was never able to close the deal and have the commitment reciprocated. This song reflects on learning about your worth, values, and what you are willing to compromise for another person. This sentiment is best captured in the chorus lyric "I keep dealing up my soul cash in a feeling, made these doors go flying open, I just wanna close them." It can be utterly disappointing to not be able to close the deal, but when you do...the pain is all worth it”

Releasing music since 2017 and accumulating over 50 million streams of her music, CXLOE has consistently lived up to her reputation of being one of the most talented young artists in Australia music today. Last year her debut EP Heavy Part I received critical acclaim and in between lockdowns throughout Australia over the last two years she has performed sold out gigs in Sydney and Melbourne and supported The Veronicas. Adroitly walking a line between alternative music and electronic pop whilst still remaining utterly authentic, new music from CXLOE is always a highlight and ‘Close’ is no different. Moving, emotional, soulful and deep it is music that makes you feel and is well worth spending time with.

‘Close’ is out now via Sandlot Records/AWAL. You can buy and stream here.

To keep up with all things CXLOE you can follow her on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.