The Mars McClanes – December Songs (2023)
With a sound that is as unpredictable as it is eclectic, The Mars McClanes are not setting their stamp on modern-day indie-rock but rather redefining genres and sub-genres alike. When we left the pair review-wise, it was with the dreamy and charming single ‘Be Still’. Inserting a sliver of indie folk into their style, ‘Be Still’ is an emotive song with a suave sensibility. Yet, keeping in line with their uniqueness, The Mars McClanes continued to insert grunge, alternative rock, and even the spice of punk into their music as the year progressed. Come with us as we jump into their latest single ‘December Songs’.
Following on from the well-received single ‘So Close’, the US-based duo drifted from a soft folk style to a slightly heavier Americana tune. Blending tones of country with indie-rock inclinations, ‘December Songs’ draws together acoustic guitars and drums in rhythmic harmony. Unlike the upbeat, pulsating crash of drums and scorching guitar heard in ‘Follow Me’, ‘December Songs’ is a smooth, soothing, laidback way to end the year.
Mellifluous, gentle and filled with a moving charm to intoxicate listeners with the simplistic tune, ‘December Songs’ can easily be placed among the top Christmas tunes for this year. Interestingly, darkness lurks beneath the flowing melody. Lyrically, there is a twist and pull of melancholic nostalgia as we wonder at the times gone by and question the hopefulness of holiday bliss. All warm and fuzzy but with the vulnerable distaste by the frustrated onlooker.
“If we’re honest, the Grinch had a valid point. Nothing can make us more conscious of our own misery than watching joy in others during the holidays. A state of seasonal bliss is like an exclusive nightclub complete with bouncer and velvet rope. Waiting outside is tolerable – right up until the moment the fortunate ones get to skip the line… Christmas man, it’s complicated.” – The Mars McClanes on ‘December Songs’
Dr Suess called the Grinch a “mean one” covered with an envious green appearance who, according to Chris Jordan of the Asbury Park Press, was “wonderfully depraved in the best of holiday ways…” For me, The Mars McClanes capture the heart of the Grinch with its envious grin in ‘December Songs’, wrapped in rugged acoustic Americana film, then lay it on the rug with a sigh, smile and overall feeling of Grinch-like comfort.
Find out more about The Mars McClanes on their official website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
Discover more Americana tunes on The Other Side Reviews Americana playlist:
