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La Roux's 'Old Flames': Nostalgia, Breakups & Coming Out
7 Nov
Summary
- La Roux's new album 'Old Flames' revisits late '90s/early '00s pop.
- The album explores a 17-year relationship breakup and self-discovery.
- Jackson discusses the personal significance of her debut album's hits.
Elly Jackson, the artist behind the musical project La Roux, has released her fourth album, 'Old Flames,' today, November 7, 2026. This new collection shifts La Roux's signature style to embrace the sounds and aesthetics of the late 1990s and early 2000s, drawing inspiration from artists like SWV and Mariah Carey.
The album delves into deeply personal themes, including the conclusion of Jackson's 17-year relationship and her journey of self-acceptance. Jackson, now 38, reflects on her desire for personal growth and coming to terms with aspects of her identity she hadn't fully revealed previously.
Jackson is currently on tour in Australia, opening for Hilary Duff. She has spoken about the profound personal significance of 'Old Flames,' noting that the album allowed her to revisit and understand her debut's themes, particularly regarding her own coming out process and the impact of her early hit "In For the Kill."
The visual aesthetic for 'Old Flames' mirrors its sonic direction, evoking American casual wear from the '90s, a departure from La Roux's usual avant-garde style. Jackson aimed to capture a sense of warmth and safety associated with the pre-internet era, offering a nostalgic refuge.
'Old Flames' also addresses Jackson's personal struggles, including addiction and maturing out of prolonged "Peter Pan-ism." She identifies "Cabin Fever" and "Lose Myself" as songs reflecting this internal breakup and her journey toward growth.
