Aloe's Gritty Pop Vision: From Opera Halls to NYC Streets

Meet Aloe, an artist who defies conventions and thrives in the intersections of music, production, and visual storytelling. Originally from Australia and now rooted in New York City, Aloe’s path has shifted from a decade of classical opera training to a unique genre they call "grit pop." With a classical foundation and an unyielding passion for self- produced, layered soundscapes, Aloe is on a mission to push the boundaries of pop music while staying grounded in raw, unfiltered self-expression.

A Journey from Classical to Grit Pop

Aloe’s musical journey began with a firm foundation in classical opera, performing on prestigious stages like the Sydney Opera House. Yet, as Aloe recalls, the rigid discipline of opera never resonated deeply. It was only upon leaving classical music and diving into songwriting that Aloe felt a true creative spark. "Writing songs allowed me to find my voice in a way opera never did," they explain, and this newfound freedom led them to Berklee College of Music in Boston, where they dove into songwriting and music production. Now, based in NYC, Aloe channels that classical training into a fiercely independent and fresh musical style that defies easy categorization.

Building a Signature Sound: Layers of Emotion and Production

Aloe’s music is an intricate tapestry woven from their hands-on approach to production and distinct voice arrangements. Preferring vocal textures over traditional instrumentation, Aloe’s tracks are known for their complex harmonies, often stacking 50+ layers of electronically enhanced vocals. With influences from alternative and pop artists like Caroline Polachek and Bon Iver, Aloe focuses on creating immersive audio experiences that pull listeners into a world of metaphor and emotion. They describe their work as “painting with sound,” where every beat and harmony is meticulously crafted to support the message and mood of the lyrics.

Visuals as a Second Language

For Aloe, visuals are as essential as the music itself. Without formal training in graphic design, they’ve still managed to build a DIY aesthetic that matches their “grit pop” music. Aloe’s visuals—a mix of hand-crafted animations, collages, and video content shot on a 30-year-old camcorder—embody an unpolished authenticity. Often collaborating with photographer Ebony Cafarella, Aloe’s recent visuals focus on rawness, humor, and a deliberate imperfection. From the Comic Sans fonts to a fish costume for a music video, Aloe’s visual style resonates with the same playful rebellion found in their sound, enhancing the overall artistic experience.

Collaborations and Future Sounds

Aloe’s approach to collaboration remains grounded in connection and mutual admiration. Their creative circle includes mixing engineers like Joe Begalla and mastering artists like Alexander Wright, who have become essential collaborators. Looking forward, Aloe aspires to work with artists like Miette Hope and their own sister, Teddie, both of whom bring new layers and perspectives to the music. Though Aloe’s upcoming releases still feature an older sound, they hint at a shift towards “gritty visceral pop,” a new evolution they’re eager to share with the world.