The track emerges from what Star describes as "little music floating in my mind" whilst traversing sun-drenched streets en route to Kalamata's shores. It's a delightfully unpretentious genesis story that immediately endears, even if it doesn't quite prepare one for the musical journey that follows. Recorded in Nice – because where else would one capture such continental leisure? – the single represents a kind of musical tourism that, whilst not groundbreaking, possesses an undeniable warmth.

Star's decision to craft multiple mood variations – electro, dance, Latin, and what he terms "smooth synth mood" – suggests an artist keenly aware of summer's multifaceted nature. The collaboration with vocalist Courtney adds a necessary human dimension to what could have been merely an instrumental exercise in nostalgia. The four-track approach, incorporating natural instruments, demonstrates a commendable restraint in an age of over-production.

The track's "caliente and sunny rhythm" – as Star himself describes it – does indeed deliver on its promise of good-mood elevation. It's chill-out music that actually achieves its stated goal of chilling one out, rather than simply occupying sonic space. In our current climate of manufactured wellness and commodified relaxation, such authentic escapism feels almost radical.

Star's background in theatre adds an interesting dimension to his musical persona. One senses a performer who understands the importance of atmosphere and emotional timing, even if the technical execution occasionally betrays its bedroom-studio origins. The upcoming Marseille concert will be telling – will this Mediterranean daydream translate to live performance, or does it exist purely as recorded reverie?

"IAM GOING ON THE BEACH" succeeds most as what the French might call a "chanson de l'été" – a summer song that doesn't apologize for its seasonal specificity. It's music for moments rather than movements, and there's genuine value in that distinction. In an industry often obsessed with universal appeal and cross-demographic penetration, Star has crafted something delightfully, unapologetically specific.

The single's greatest achievement is its ability to transport listeners to that liminal space between day and evening, between activity and rest, where summer's best moments often reside. It may not challenge the canon or redefine genres, but it captures something equally valuable: the simple pleasure of being present in a perfect moment.

For all its modest aspirations, "IAM GOING ON THE BEACH" suggests an artist worth watching, if only to see whether this Mediterranean muse proves sustainable beyond the summer months.

Alex Star's "IAM GOING ON THE BEACH" is available now. The artist performs live in Marseille this August.