In a world where power, wealth and status often seem to matter more than kindness, Alex Johnston uses his album, ‘Superhero’ to reflect on the state of society and the possibility of a better future. Released on June 19, 2026, the album brings themes of compassion, social responsibility, generational change and personal reflection, balancing disappointment with a sense of hope.
Johnston’s perspective is shaped by his concern that civilisation is becoming increasingly belligerent and inward-looking, despite having the tools to make kindness a defining feature of the age. He questions why material success and social status often take priority over human connection, while expressing the hope that younger generations will approach life differently. Rather than presenting a completely pessimistic outlook, he leaves room for the possibility of change, believing that his own generation must eventually make way for new perspectives.
Across its 15 tracks, ‘Superhero’ explores these ideas through different stories, musical styles and emotional perspectives. ‘Dreamers Brew’ offers a peaceful groove centred on letting go, while ‘Nobel Child’ pays tribute to the child within. ‘Excuse Me’ tells the story of a homeless man with a story to share, and ‘This Time’ focuses on the value of second and third chances.
Each track approaches human experience from a different angle, giving the album a varied but connected narrative.
The title track, ‘Superhero’ takes the form of an acoustic rock song dedicated to someone who needs help. Elsewhere, ‘What I Want’ delivers a funky satire of an entitled generation, while ‘If You Don’t Like’ uses acoustic blues to reflect on the transition between generations. ‘Don’t Knock on My Door’ turns towards themes of peace and protection, and ‘Rust’ takes a grittier blues approach to the subject of decay.
The musical direction continued to shift throughout the album. ‘The Hearth’ introduces a jazz groove inspired by the experience of gazing into a fireplace, while ‘Carry On’ takes an upbeat approach to wilful ignorance. ‘Long Way Home’ provides a slide-guitar instrumental suited to late-night driving. The collection includes two reinterpretations by Johnston’s longtime collaborator Gary Wallis: ‘Excuse Me, Broadway’ and ‘What I Want, Jamaica’.
Johnston writes and records from a shed tucked away in the English countryside, with contributions from female vocalists and Wallis. That independent, collaborative approach gives him the freedom to move between acoustic rock, blues, jazz, funk and other influences while keeping the songwriting at the centre of the project.
With ‘Superhero’ Alex Johnston presents an album that examines the contradictions of modern life without abandoning the possibility of progress. Its songs give attention to overlooked people, question social attitudes and celebrate the importance of compassion. Ultimately, the album reflects its creator’s belief that humanity can do better, even when the world offers plenty of reasons to feel disappointed.
