Strand – Upside Inside (2024)
Emerging from the indie-pop scene of North Dublin, STRAND has crafted a sound that effortlessly bridges youthful exuberance and introspective depth. Their latest single, ‘Upside Inside’, is a testament to this evolution, blending catchy hooks with lyrical charm to create a track that’s as infectious as it is relatable.
‘Upside Inside’ captures the feeling of being a 20-something caught in life’s in-between moments, where the direction is unclear, and drifting feels like the only option. But rather than wallowing, STRAND celebrates the aimlessness offering an anthem that reminds us it’s okay to embrace the mundane. Bassist Shane Aherne’s lyricism strikes the perfect balance of wit and honesty drawing listeners into a narrative that feels both personal and universal.
The track’s sound is pure indie-pop gold. With bouncy rhythms, razor-sharp guitar work reminiscent of The Strokes, and a magnetic chorus that demands to be sung along with, it’s impossible not to get hooked. David Solola and JP Roche’s guitars shimmer with a Nick Valensi-like flair, while Jude Finn’s drumming injects just the right amount of energy to keep the momentum surging. Vocalist Dara Clancy ties it all together with a delivery that feels authentic and heartfelt.
Recorded at Transmission Rooms with Keelan O’Reilly of Post-Party at the helm, the production is polished yet retains a gritty charm that suits the band’s aesthetic perfectly. The studio’s legacy of hosting acts like Declan McKenna and Kodaline seems to have inspired STRAND, pushing their sound into new territory while keeping it accessible and fresh.
‘Upside Inside’ is the kind of song that sticks with you, from its jangly guitar hook to its sing-along-ready chorus. It’s a snapshot of a band hitting their stride crafting music that is equal parts introspective and entertaining. With their debut EP on the horizon, STRAND proves they’re a force to be reckoned with. If ‘Upside Inside’ is anything to go by, aimlessness has never sounded so purposeful.
Find out more about STRAND on their X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, TikTok and Spotify.
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