Alex G, and what does the ‘G’ stand for?

Alex G, and what does the ‘G’ stand for? Genius, Groundbreaker, Gay, Guggenheim, or perhaps, Godard?

The moniker is simply a shortened version of his full name, Alexander Giannascoli. He’s not Italian, despite what you might think. His father’s family actually hails from Abruzzo in central Italy.

My introduction to this multi-instrumentalist artist from Philadelphia came through the music video for “Runner.” That MV made me think of exploring his low res live footages on the Youtube. Alexander Giannascoli showcases his prowess, strumming his Fender Acoustics CD-60CE, one might objectively label him as a prominent lyricist; only diamonds seem to come out of his mouth.

“Infinite futures become a single past”

“Well, God help me, I love you, I agree. The miracles and crosses” are just a glimpse into his poetic repertoire.

Some may view “God Save the Animals” as a mere depiction of his views on the creator of the universe. However, delving into the album reveals more. Take, for instance, “Miracle,” a song that encapsulates settling down. Alex expresses gratitude for having a perfect partner, creating serene, forlorn romantic sounds. The song is not just about religion but a sugarcoat of “what’s more miraculous than crossing paths with someone who makes you aspire to better version of yourself?”

Shall we revisit the “Runner” music video?

Every shot in the video is a testament to simplicity and aesthetic pleasure. The concept, with its slight touch of oldies staging style, features classic breaking-the-fourth-wall shots. It feels like the director had the crew call and shot list sent the night before and Alex and the band were all up for it, spending the day in a studio with warm spotlights, a transparent curtain, a pretty turquoise backdrop, and simply calming colored clothing. Some put more effort into bringing short film treatments for a music video, while others do what “Runner” does — a pure entertaining, less storyline approach. Well, a music video is experimental after all. In the case of “Runner’s” track, it definitely works with that treatment. It hooked me, and I fell in love with it, ultimately leading me to fall in love with other albums by Alexander Giannascoli.

Dinnertime has arrived; I think I will use an artist quote that is relevant to music videos.

David Fincher once said, “In the visual symphony, I orchestrate shadows and light, creating a cinematic dance for the eyes to the beat of the unseen.”