Singer-songwriter Alex Kate captures the overlooked issue of men's mental health in her new ethereal piece "Lost Soldier." A topic not usually broached in songwriting, Alex Kate delicately touches on the subject by placing it in the context of the world of a magical Neverland. Home to innocent youths and the famous Lost Boys, Neverland is illustrated as a world where time cannot affect its inhabitants—a place of tranquility and peace where the anxieties and troubles of adulthood are nowhere to be seen. Kate uses the idea of Neverland as a metaphor for escapism, a visit to a land where you can be relinquished from a turmoiled state of mind. Kate writes about an inward fragility behind a “fortress of iron,” painfully guarded from others. When writing the song Kate wanted to raise awareness about the high statistical rate of male suicide. The song emphasizes the tendency to internalize emotions due to societal expectations of men always to appear strong and stable.
The song unfolds like a military procession, driven by the steady drumbeats, representing a sense of confinement and a lifelong obligation. Kate references “little soldier” repetitively which follows along to a somber drumming pattern, furthering the portrayal of an internal war cry among its male soldiers. The song uses timpani drums to create an earthy oriental sound and features piano and strings for a heavenly feel that glides over each chant and verse. This includes her battle-like rhythmic vocals that pulse and soar over her moving lyrics, adding to the cinematic and soundtrack quality. At different points of “Lost Soldier,” we are met with the hypnotizing sparkle of an 80's influence, contributing to a mystifying and otherworldly sound that highlights the “Neverland-esque” depiction. The steady and soft move of her voice gives a tranquilizing effect, her tone calming. It is as if she is coaxing us from our shells, bidding us to come forward and seek help, to come to a safe place, or in other words, a Neverland.
An inspiring artist who has been compared to Kate Bush and Florence and The Machine, Alex Kate renders her music in the form of what she describes as a “cathartic hug.” Her music moves through a nostalgic pop, alternative, and at some points, cinematic wave of 80's pop. Kate uses her music as a tool to honestly share her personal stories in the hopes of reaching others who have gone through similar moments in life. Kate encourages others to pursue their dreams, having once only imagined them but fearing taking the chance. Now that she has, Kate is overwhelmingly thankful, as are we, her listeners, for creating powerful and pulling music. Honest and freeing, her music takes on a warmth and liberating quality that only Kate can exude from a completely appreciatively honest point of view. “Lost Soldier” feels like a breath of fresh air with its mellow melody and open-hearted lyrics, it's a message of support to those who feel lost and afraid.
Written By Mia Chavez
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