ALEXANDRA LEAVING FIND BEAUTY IN UNCERTAINTY ON ‘THIS IS IT’

SINGLE REVIEW | THIS IS IT – ALEXANDRA LEAVING by Hannah Lindsay

Recorded three years ago in London with long-term producer Jack O’Hea, This Is It feels like the kind of song that benefits from time. There’s a sense of reflection woven through it establishing this single as a track shaped by distance, uncertainty and all the ‘almosts’ that linger long after moments have passed.

Alexandra Leaving, fronted by Alex, balance emotional honesty with restraint, allowing the song’s atmosphere to build naturally rather than forcing it towards a dramatic payoff. Warm guitar chords and a smooth bassline that plays in great company with the deep snare of the drums give the instrumentals a bittersweet edge. Together, with the gentleness of the vocal performance, this song plays intimate but carries vulnerability with a quiet confidence.

What stands out most is how relatable the songwriting feels. Themes of hope seem to wrestle with doubt, offering a thoughtful reflection without sounding self-conscious. There’s also a timeless quality to the arrangement that makes it easy to imagine the song connecting just as strongly in a live setting. With upcoming performances at The Bike Shed on May 22nd, a headline slot at Sunflower Lounge on July 10th, and a support appearance for The Howlers at Rother Street Arts House on July 16th, the release arrives at the right moment for the band to carry that momentum onto the stage.

This Is It doesn’t rely on grand gestures to make an impact, the craftsmanship speaks for itself! Whilst a bigger dramatic swell or expansive vocal moment towards the end could elevate the payoff, Alexandra Leaving prove that honesty, restraint and strong songwriting can speak louder than anything else. For more, check the band out on Instagram!