What began as a deeply personal response to loss has evolved into one of the most compelling debut statements of the year. Los Angeles singer-songwriter Alec Riley, performing under the name Light Once Lost, has unveiled his new EP 'What Doesn’t Steal You', a six-track collection that channels grief, resilience, and self-discovery through a powerful blend of indie rock, post-punk, and emotionally charged songwriting.
Anchored by the explosive single 'Exit Clause', featuring Touché Amoré’s Jeremy Bolm, the EP balances raw vulnerability with soaring energy, showcasing Riley’s ability to transform personal experiences into something universally resonant.
So with the new EP out now, we sat down with him to find out more about his origins and what has been inspiring him most over the years.
-
What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
The first instrument I remember falling in love with was the violin. I grew up playing orchestral instruments in school, so I played violin, viola, and cello for a number of years. It was this affinity that helped me find the guitar a little later on.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I really enjoyed heavier music when I was younger. When I was a kid I was introduced to grunge very early by my mother, and my older brother was also very much into metal at the time. That sort of music was the gateway that eventually introduced me to punk and hardcore.
What was the first album you remember owning?
The first album I bought with my own money was Linkin Park’s “Hybrid Theory”. That album was inescapable at that time.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
There are so many! I find myself hearing songs constantly that I wish could’ve been mine. I’d say one of the most consistent songs that I continually return to and still remain in awe of is “Fake Plastic Trees”. It’s one of those songs that just got everything right. It’s perfect.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
This is a tough question because for me I’ve found that my ritual changes depending on the material. For this record, for example, I found myself revisiting records that inspired me emotionally rather than sonically. I feel that if I could find songs or records that evoked the correct “feeling” that I was trying to emulate, then it would evoke that same feeling in my art. Generally what will happen after that is simply trying to get a guitar line down that can formulate some sort of melody. Almost all of my songs start on the guitar.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
I will constantly return to The National. I specifically have found myself listening to their live sets and listening to the nuances and flourishes they add to certain tracks. They continuously inspire me. Interpol is another big one for me. I feel like I’m always drawn to their sound and the atmosphere that they create within their sound. Another band that has recently been added to my queue is Manchester Orchestra. I find myself always returning to “A Black Mile To The Surface”. What a great record.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Anyone that I mentioned just now probably, but The National is a bucket list band for me for sure.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
I think just the creating aspect of being a musician is the biggest reward. I’m sure previously I would’ve given a different answer where I’d say something along the lines of: “Having people hear your music” or “Playing the songs live”. Both of those things are definitely special and are extremely rewarding, but recently I’ve just become more interested in the writing of the songs. There’s just something about being in a room and hearing everything come together for the first time for a song that all makes sense. There’s no better feeling.
And what is the most frustrating part?
Selling yourself. It’s really difficult to place a value on your creations, specifically when they’re as personal as some are. I’ve found it increasingly difficult to play that game.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Intention and authenticity are the most valuable aspects of your art. If you care about what you create, and want people to hear it, then it’s integral to show exactly who you are and exactly what you want to say in the most honest way. There’s no use in trying to be something or someone else.
-
Light Once Lost's new EP 'What Doesn't Steal You' is out now. Listen to it in the player below.