Reetoxa’s Soliloquy is not just another album release—it’s a deeply personal, cinematic double album forged through years of ambition, interruption, and creative intensity. Written and compiled during the COVID-19 lockdowns, Soliloquy marks a defining moment for lead singer, composer, and lyricist Jason McKee, delivering an immersive listening experience that reaches far beyond conventional music boundaries.
A Project Decades in the Making
The origins of Soliloquy trace back to 1997, when a 17-year-old Jason McKee realized he had written enough material for a debut album. Inspired by his English Literature teacher’s lessons on Shakespearean storytelling, he adopted the name “Soliloquy” as a creative identity—one that reflected introspection and emotional depth.
However, like many artistic pursuits, life intervened. The project was placed on hold as other priorities took over, leaving the concept dormant for years.
A Defining Moment That Sparked Everything
The turning point came unexpectedly at a Spiderbait gig at Melbourne’s Forum Theatre. When asked to share his music, McKee found himself with nothing but rough voice notes. That moment of realization pushed him to make a bold decision: he left his university music degree behind to fully commit to recording and bringing Soliloquy to life.
Soon after, McKee met producer Simon Moro at RMIT, forming a creative partnership that would shape the album’s sound and direction.
COVID-19 Lockdowns and Creative Explosion
Just as recording plans began to take shape, the global pandemic hit—locking down Melbourne for extended periods. Instead of refining earlier material, McKee took a different path. Immersed in isolation, he revisited his entire catalog of songs and began writing new material rooted in his personal experiences.
Fuelled by relentless work habits—long nights, minimal sleep, and constant creative pressure—the process became all-consuming. The intensity of creating Soliloquy eventually took a toll on McKee’s health, leading to a six-week hospital stay. Yet, from that struggle emerged an album of remarkable emotional depth and honesty.
A World-Class Musical Collaboration
Soliloquy brings together an impressive lineup of accomplished musicians:
- Kit Riley (bass), known for work with Robbie Williams, Savage Garden, and Ross Wilson
- Peter Marin (drums), associated with Jet and Ross Wilson
- James Ryan (guitar), linked to Men at Work and Ross Wilson
- Jessica McPherson-Riley (backing vocals)
- Terry Hart (piano)
Produced and mastered by Simon Moro, the album also features a Budapest-based orchestra on six tracks, adding a rich, cinematic layer to the sound.
An Immersive Double Album Experience
In an era dominated by singles and short-form listening, Soliloquy stands apart as a full-length artistic journey. Designed to be experienced from beginning to end, the album invites listeners to sit down, disconnect, and engage deeply with its narrative.
The music blends introspective lyrics with sweeping orchestration, creating a soundscape that explores memory, emotion, and the complexities of life. Each track contributes to a larger story, making the album feel less like a collection of songs and more like a cohesive emotional experience.
Why Soliloquy Could Be Australia’s Standout Independent Album
With its ambitious scope, emotional authenticity, and high-level production, Soliloquy positions itself as a strong contender for one of Australia’s best independent releases of the year. Its combination of personal storytelling and orchestral depth gives it a universal appeal that could resonate with audiences worldwide.
Soliloquy by Reetoxa is more than an album—it’s the culmination of decades of creativity, sacrifice, and resilience. Jason McKee’s journey from teenage songwriter to fully realized artist is reflected in every note and lyric.
For listeners seeking something deeper than the ordinary, Soliloquy offers a powerful reminder of what music can achieve when passion meets perseverance.