Emerging Liverpool-based band STR^NGE has unleashed their brilliant self-titled EP. Blending psychedelic, rock, and indie influences with a warming, analog, vintage undertone the EP tackles profound themes of existence and love, whilst also touching on social and political commentary.
The EP is spearheaded by the biting lead single, ‘The Length of a Cigarette’, a track that perfectly encapsulates the band’s genre-defying sound and philosophical depth. With urgent, poetry-laden vocals layered over distorted guitars, pulsating basslines, and thundering drums, the song grows into an explosive instrumental crescendo before delivering a climactic final chorus. It’s a poignant exploration of existential angst, delivered with cutting cynicism and raw energy.
The band describes the single as a reflection of life’s absurdities, framed through a lens of disillusionment. “Cynical all the way through,” they explain, “It focuses on the absurdity of life and our complacency while the ridiculous surrounds us. As oil companies profit, cartels thrive, and media feeds us fear, the song asks: why should we bother? Like a cigarette, life ends, discarded and forgotten. The track is a provocation, asking listeners to confront the meaninglessness of it all.”
The new EP showcases STR^NGE’s experimental evolution since their 2023 debut, ‘Let’s Leave the Greyhounds in the Slips.’ According to the band, this project dives deeper both lyrically and stylistically. “It’s our proper debut in a way,” they say. “This time, we’ve toyed with different genres and leaned into abstract lyricism. There’s a lot for listeners to dig into and interpret.”
STR^NGE draws influence from iconic trailblazers like David Bowie and Talking Heads, crafting music that feels nostalgic yet daringly new. This unique approach has fuelled their rise, earning them glowing reviews and a reputation for both sonic innovation and unforgettable live performances.
Formed by Chrissy, a former drummer for The Mysterines, alongside James, David, and Leon, STR^NGE have already proven themselves as a formidable live act. They’ve sold out headline shows across Liverpool, headlined the ‘Joy’ stage at the Future Now festival, and opened for rock heavyweights like Demob Happy at the Arts Club.
With support from notable press outlets, STR^NGE’s buzz continues to grow. Whether through their captivating new EP or electrifying live shows, this Liverpool-based quartet is carving out their own unique space, pushing the boundaries of their sound through inventive instrumentation and thought-provoking lyricism.
Listen below:
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