Olly Alexander, the multi-talented singer, songwriter, actor, and activist, has officially stepped into a new chapter of his career with the release of Polari, his first album released under his own name, Olly Alexander.
From Years & Years to Olly Alexander: An Evolution
Out now worldwide, the album marks a bold and deeply personal statement from Alexander, showcasing his evolution as an artist over a decade into his prolific career. Known for his work under the moniker Years & Years, as well as his acclaimed acting roles and LGBTQ+ advocacy, Olly Alexander has long been a cultural force. With Polari, he cements his status as a solo artist unafraid to explore his identity and push creative boundaries.
The album’s title, Polari, is a homage to the secret language used by gay men in Britain during the mid-20th century. This coded vernacular, born out of necessity in a time when being homosexual was criminalized (Editorial Note: depressing how the world seems to be heading back here in 2025) served as a means of connection and survival within the queer community. For Alexander, this historical connection is deeply personal, reflecting his own journey as a queer artist and activist.
“Just the fact of being gay and having a secret language—that felt like it spoke to me as an artist,” Alexander reflects. “That’s what my whole life has been. So, it became the thing that defined the best record I’ve ever made.”
A Celebration of Queer Identity
Polari is more than just an album; it’s a celebration of queer identity, a love letter to the LGBTQ+ community, and a sonic exploration of Alexander’s own experiences. The record opens with a burst of kinetic pop energy, setting the tone for a collection of songs that are as introspective as they are danceable. From the glittering highs of disco-inspired tracks to the tender, synth-driven ballads, Polari is a journey through the many facets of Alexander’s artistry.
One of the album’s standout moments is Whisper in the Waves, a hauntingly beautiful synthwave ballad that showcases Alexander’s ability to blend vulnerability with lush, electronic soundscapes.
The track is a departure from the album’s more upbeat offerings, offering a moment of quiet reflection amidst the pulsating energy of the record. Accompanied by an official music video directed by acclaimed filmmaker Colin Solal Cardo, Whisper in the Waves is a visual and auditory feast. The video, like the song itself, is a testament to Alexander’s commitment to creating art that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.
The album was crafted in Danny L. Harle’s Hackney Road studio, a space that holds special meaning for Alexander. Just across the street lies the backdrop of his formative experiences in London’s East End gay club scene, making the album a vibrant link between queer pop’s rich history and its modern evolution. “I was really trying to find what feels like my identity now,” Alexander reveals. “It all started to make sense as soon as I started making a record there.”
From the disco-infused rhythms of Cupid’s Bow, the album’s lead single, to the bittersweet yet energetic vibes of Archangel and When We Kiss, the record effortlessly balances nostalgia with contemporary flair. Cupid’s Bow, in particular, is a rigorous, dreamlike ode to the art of cruising, with lyrics that nod to George Michael’s Fastlove. Meanwhile, Archangel has been praised by critics as a “standout” track, with its melancholic chug and emotional depth.
A highlight of the album is Make Me a Man, a collaboration with Vince Clarke, the legendary songwriter behind Depeche Mode and Erasure. Clarke’s involvement adds a touch of synth-pop royalty to the project, and the track itself is a bold exploration of identity and transformation. “And he said yes,” Alexander recalls with delight, calling the collaboration a “production coup.”
The album also features Alexander’s Eurovision entry, Dizzy, which seamlessly fits into the record’s vibrant tapestry. With its Pet Shop Boys-inspired pomp and infectious energy, Dizzy is a reminder of Alexander’s ability to craft pop anthems that are both timeless and timely.
What’s Next for Olly Alexander?
As Polari makes its way into the world, Olly Alexander is set to embark on his Up Close and Polari Tour this spring, bringing his electrifying new music to audiences across the UK and Europe. The tour promises to be an intimate and immersive experience, allowing fans to connect with the album’s themes on a deeper level.
With Polari, Olly Alexander has crafted an album that is both a celebration of queer identity and a testament to his artistry. It’s a record that invites listeners to dance, reflect, and revel in the joy of self-expression. Whisper in the Waves is just one shimmering piece of this synth-pop bliss—a must-listen for anyone seeking music that speaks to the heart and soul.
In a world where queer voices are more important than ever, Polari stands as a beacon of authenticity and creativity. It’s a reminder that music has the power to unite, uplift, and inspire, and Olly Alexander is leading the charge with grace, passion, and unapologetic pride.
Polari is available now worldwide. Watch the official music video for Olly Alexander’s Whisper in the Waves below. For tour dates and tickets, visit www.ollyalexander.co.uk.
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