Alex G – Trick (with 7″ Single “Sarah”)

Alex G’s Trick, originally self-released in 2012, is a lo-fi indie rock album that blends intimate storytelling with experimental textures, establishing him as a cult figure in DIY music circles.

Trick was recorded between 2011 and 2012 and first released via Bandcamp before receiving a professionally mastered reissue through Lucky Number in 2015. As Alex G’s fourth studio album, it followed Rules and helped solidify his reputation among Philadelphia’s independent music scene. The album’s raw production and emotionally resonant songwriting struck a chord with listeners drawn to its eccentric, melancholic charm.

Thematically, Trick explores intimacy, nostalgia, and vulnerability, often through cryptic lyrics and shifting sonic moods. Tracks like “Sarah,” “Forever,” and “Advice” have become fan favorites, showcasing Alex G’s ability to craft deeply personal narratives with minimalistic arrangements. His vocals range from soft and wistful to distorted and surreal, reflecting the emotional complexity of the material.

Musically, the album spans lo-fi folk, bedroom pop, and experimental rock, with Alex G playing most instruments himself. The production is intentionally unpolished, giving the songs a diary-like immediacy. Critics have praised Trick for its emotional depth and eccentric aesthetic, noting how it balances fragility with bold creative choices.

Over time, Trick has become one of Alex G’s most beloved and representative works, often cited as a gateway into his discography.