Here’s a burst of sonic energy and infectious melody from Minneapolis-based lawyer-turned-novelist-turned-musician Mary Strand. ‘Take Your Time’ launches with driving guitar from Ryan Smith and Jack Strand’s pounding drums. There’s a great sense of immediacy and urgency from Strand’s band, The Garage, as the instrumentation moves at pace, with freedom and fluency. Strand delivers a dynamic vocal performance that flows through the song with an engaging melody. ‘Take Your Time’ is about the end of a relationship and moving on: “You left a jacket, your favourite shoes // As if you couldn’t believe I’d ever choose // A life in which you’re never there,” and Strand’s words carry the same feeling of freedom as the musical performances.
‘Take Your Time’ is the first single from Strand’s new album “I Don’t Need Your Permission”, her second full-length release. Compared to her debut, “Golden Girl”, Strand has upped the urgency and rocked out in this new collection. Inspired by a near-death experience, the album explores what is important to us and reflects Strand’s changing perspective on life, society, and the wider world. These are songs of empowerment and social justice, especially through the eyes of a woman. Strand blends a range of genres and influences, though she thinks of her style as “Just me.”
For a musical blast this morning, check out the lively ‘Take Your Time’ – it’ll get your day moving.
