Biography
Alexis & the Samurai is a New Orleans-based indie pop/rock duo composed of Alexis Marceaux and Sam Craft. The pair originally formed as a self-contained project, focusing on intimate performances and a mercantile approach to their music, which allowed them to play in a variety of settings and maintain creative control over their work[1][3]. Their debut album marked a turning point, as they honed their identity and collaborative process, blending Marceaux's emotive vocals with Craft's multi-instrumental talents, particularly on violin and keyboard[3][4].
Over the past decade, Alexis & the Samurai have become known for their dynamic live shows and heartfelt songwriting, which often explores themes of melancholy and resilience[8]. Their sound is characterized by lush arrangements and a blend of indie pop sensibilities with rock and folk influences, reflecting their New Orleans roots and the city's rich musical heritage[3][4]. Recently, the duo transitioned to a new moniker, Alexis & the Sanity, signaling an evolution in both their name and musical direction while retaining the core partnership that defined their earlier work[2][6].
Alexis & the Samurai's legacy lies in their ability to create intimate yet expansive music that resonates with audiences, both locally and beyond. Their collaborative spirit and commitment to artistic growth have made them a staple of the New Orleans music scene, inspiring fellow musicians and contributing to the city's vibrant cultural tapestry[5].
Fun Facts
- The duo started as a 'mercantile project,' meaning they intentionally kept their setup small and flexible to play a wide range of venues[1].
- Alexis & the Samurai changed their name to Alexis & the Sanity after a decade, marking a new chapter in their musical journey[2].
- Their live performances are known for their emotional intensity and close connection with audiences, often enchanting crowds with their endearing nature[5].
- Sam Craft is a multi-instrumentalist, contributing violin, keyboard, and arrangements to the duo's unique sound[4].
Members
- Sam Craft
- Alexis Marceaux
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- New Orleans Music Community - The duo's style and approach have been shaped by the diverse and collaborative New Orleans music scene. (General influence on all projects) [2010s-present]
Key Collaborators
- Alexis Marceaux - Lead vocalist and songwriter, co-founder of the duo. (All Alexis & the Samurai releases) [2010s-present]
- Sam Craft - Violinist, keyboardist, co-founder, and arranger. (All Alexis & the Samurai releases) [2010s-present]
Connection Network
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Move into View | 2016-05-24 | Album |
| Orange Moon | 2014-04-01 | Album |
| Orange Moon | 2014-04-22 | Album |
Top Tracks
- Pots and Pans (Move into View)
- Parlez-Nous À Boire (Move into View)
- Brains (Orange Moon)
- Swamp Fire (Move into View)
- Shut Up (Move into View)
- I'm Gonna Sit Right Down and Write Myself a Letter (Move into View)
- Stuck (Move into View)
- Leila and the Orange Moon (Orange Moon)
- Stars (Orange Moon)
- Fox (Orange Moon)
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
Alexis & the Samurai has been played 3 times on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 9, 2026 | 13:08 | leila & the orange moon | New Orleans Music Showw/ Black Mold or Bill DeTurk | |
| Nov 20, 2025 | 13:30 | Dogsfrom Move Into View | New Orleans Music Showw/ Michael Dominici | |
| Oct 25, 2025 | 14:02 | Brazil | Tudo Bem (Brazilian)w/ Dean Ellis |