Don’t Sleep On Jon Casey at PHXLIGHTS
March 28, 2025
March 28, 2025
Multitalented producer, DJ, AND songwriter Fox Stevenson is best known for his drum and bass releases with a subtle pop-punk twist, found in the tempo and vocals, sometimes moving at a breakneck pace, like in “Bruises.” A good chunk of Fox Stevenson’s early discography is dubstep focused, showcasing a gradual evolution in genre and style. His iconic album, Killjoy, is a vocal driven masterpiece that is definitely worth checking out. Fox’s involvement in every element of his production represents the dedication and passion that he puts into music. Fox Stevenson was also the subject of my December 2024 Artist Spotlight and is one of my favorite hidden gems in the scene. His independent spirit and confidence shines though in the upbeat side of his discography (“Like That“), while his more introspective and vulnerable side is captured on tracks like “Killjoy” and “Deja Vu.“
Fox Stevenson is back and ringing in his 2025 release schedule with the snazzy single, “That Choice.” A modern daydreamer’s anthem that is open, honest, and vulnerable. Relatable lyrics are a staple of Fox Stevenson’s discography and his newest release is no exception. Fox Stevenson’s vocals and lyrics always complement the instrumentals well. His varied skillset makes for some incredible, intricate works.
“That Choice” begins with Fox clearing his throat, inviting a funky bassline and soft drum effects to join the party. Establishing the track’s groovy bounce early on. Fox Stevenson’s lyrics and vocals also match the track’s vibe. Spitting facts from the get go.
“Just dropped in from the daydream. You know I always gotta cause a big scene. Gotta make everything about me. I’ve been like this since I was like thirteen. So let me bend your ears while I got them. What is it you’re really trying to run from? I guess that’s the thing about problems. While you ignore them, then you ain’t got none.”
The arrival and timing of the vocals matches the vibe of being “dropped in from a daydream,” adding an extra thematic layer to this section. Fox then admits that the first thing that he does when back in reality is “cause a big scene” and “make everything about me.” He readily admits that this has been a pattern in his life for a while, but is unsure how to stop. I especially love the line “let me bend your ears while I got them.” It implies that Fox already knows he has your attention, but still has more tricks up his sleeve for later. The final two lines cover the dangerous sense of bliss that can come over you when you ignore your problems for too long. This never works and only leads to larger consequences.
“I’m feeling that choice in the way. I’m feeding that void everyday.”
This verse leads into an evolving drumbeat with shooting stars and spirals ringing throughout the pre build. Full-bodied acoustic guitar notes and natural bass tones add Fox’s signature pop-punk/rock fingerprint to this gorgeous dance track. The spirals and shooting stars flare out over DnB breakbeats and whistles. Returning to the rock vibe for the next verse. EDM effects quickly flutter their way back into the track over a breakbeat. “That Choice” also features a wubby bridge section that leads directly into a drop. Mixing every vibe from the song together at once. The beat of the song just keeps evolving and changing. It’s incredible!
The upbeat and pleasant sounds of “That Choice” often contradict with the darker lyrical themes, another common trend among Fox Stevenson’s releases. The release’s third verse is my absolute favorite. It features an admission that he “thought he was alone in trying to live lies” and the “depressing epiphany that everyone’s a person being hid behind.” This leads to the conclusion that others only know us as much as we let them, and vice-versa. We all have layers and human aspects to us that others do not see. “That Choice” encourages us to be more open about these hidden layers in order to build community and connection with those around us. Asking the profound question:
“What happens when these people meet?”
Connect with Fox Stevenson: Facebook | Instagram | X | Spotify | SoundCloud