Review: Echoes of the Eighties Pulse Through Jordan Perry’s “Alone”

By Scott Roos

Our Grade: A-

With his latest single, "Alone", Jordan Perry leans confidently into retro territory, delivering a shimmering slice of synth pop that feels both nostalgic and fresh. The track opens with a restrained, mid-tempo pulse before gradually layering glossy keyboards and live drums, creating a slow-burn build that pays off in a satisfying climax. It’s easy to imagine this one sliding seamlessly onto the soundtrack of Cobra Kai, thanks to its polished eighties DNA.

A major highlight is the saxophone break, which lands squarely in the lineage of classics like "Maneater" by Hall and Oates, "You Belong to the City" by Glenn Frey, and the dramatic sweep of "Baker Street" by Gerry Rafferty. Guest player Jesse Molloy (of The Midnight) understands the assignment perfectly, delivering a tone and phrasing that feel era-authentic without sounding dated.

Vocally, December Rose provides much of the emotional lift. Her soaring high register adds a welcome dynamic push and gives the chorus real punch. Perry’s own vocal approach is more detached and aloof, which worked effectively on "Sleep Forever" but feels slightly less compelling here. A few more moments of vocal interplay or harmony between the two singers might have elevated the track even further.

Still, the immaculate production and confident command of the synth-pop aesthetic carry the day. Alone is another strong entry in Perry’s growing catalog and a promising preview of what’s to come from Jeux d’hiver which drops March 13th.

Looking ahead, the single suggests the forthcoming album will continue refining Perry’s nostalgic instincts while pushing his arrangements toward greater emotional depth. If this balance between polish and feeling holds, listeners should expect a cohesive and engaging winter-themed release when the full record finally arrives ready to soundtrack many late-night reflective drives across the frozen Canadian landscape ahead of spring thaw.