Songwriter Alec Benjamin back on the road, set to make a stop at El Rey Theater

Apr. 20—Alec Benjamin tried to relish the idea of having more time.

It was the silver lining to not being able to tour for nearly two years.

The singer-songwriter used his down time to write. Those efforts comprise his new album, "(Un)Commentary."

Benjamin's profile has been on the rise since he released his debut album in 2018. His debut song "Let Me Down Slowly," was a top 10 hit.

His current single "Shadow Of Mine," takes a deep dive into his vulnerability offering insight into a darker part of his mind.

"This process was like no other," he says. "The songs were written during the pandemic and because there was no deadline, I just worked on material. I felt like I was watching the world go a little crazy. It made me think a lot. Whenever I am writing, I don't realize how people are going to live it."

Benjamin is out on tour in support of the new album. It will make a stop at the Historic El Rey Theater in Downtown Albuquerque on Tuesday, April 26. He will also play at Western New Mexico University on Friday, April 22.

Benjamin knows that having the time to get introspective doesn't always happen when writing.

"I write because oftentimes it's cathartic for me," Benjamin says. "It gives me a chance to get out of my head. At the end of some of the process, I have a record or a song. It's amazing."

Touring the world is quite a difference from his days busking in front of concerts while growing up in Phoenix.

He says his lyrics are soul bearing, which can also be intimidating because of his honesty.

"It makes me feel better that there are people that feel the same way that I feel," he says. "When I hear people in the audience, it makes me feel less alone in the world."

Benjamin is also celebrating new things in his life. In April, he will play the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival for the first time.

"Growing up, my friends would go," he says. "I told them I wouldn't go unless I get booked to play. It's happening."

Benjamin also adopted a dog with his family.

"I didn't know how much I would love this dog," he says. "On a real level, I'm kind of sad that I will be leaving on tour."

As he heads out on the road, it's a moment he's been planning for more than two years.

He's got a set list and a musical director.

"This is the first time," he says of having a musical director. "We want to convey the dynamic of the set. I'm still pretty new, so the catalog is growing. I'm thrilled to be able to travel the country again on tour."

Alec Benjamin

With Sara Kays

WHEN: 8 p.m. Tuesday, April 26

WHERE: Historic El Rey Theater, 620 Central SW

HOW MUCH: $33, plus fess at ampconcerts.org or holdmyticket.com