Strange Company’s debut album, Eyes Wide Open, promises to be one of 2024’s best releases on the back of singles such as “Lois Lane”. Lead singer Chris Burris and guitarist Aaron “Crash” Robinette propel this clever, yet never facile, pop rock gem ably supported by talented bandmates.
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The single’s production strengths help make it a vivid and physically engaging listening experience that never overstays its welcome. First formed in Memphis and now based out of Nashville, Strange Company’s single trumpets a broadly appealing sound that’s familiar to listeners yet sparkles with a self-assured identity. Pop-rock fans are in for quite a treat if Eyes Wide Open’s remaining tracks surge and crackle with the same energy they conjure with this recording.
Their energy level never flags. I’m impressed with the inspired emotion that powers “Lois Lane” from beginning to end. I’m used to hearing solid songs that hit similar high points, but there’s inevitably a lull or two in even the best examples. Strange Company avoids that. It sounds like they’ve been waiting years to unleash this number on an unsuspecting music-listening public, and it’s well worth every second. Jeff Shannon’s production acumen provides the crowning touch.
He frames each part of the performance vividly. Robinette’s guitar work is a definite beneficiary of his approach. He takes the spotlight between the song’s verses and engages listeners without reservation, but even his restrained contribution during each verse deepens the track’s impact. Bassist Andrew Allen is another key cog in the song’s machinery. His bass playing never attempts to seize the listener’s attention at the expense of the band’s front-line instrumentation, but you can’t miss his presence. He locks in with the song’s rock-solid drumming, and it gives the song an impressive foundation.
Lead vocalist Chris Burris makes the most out of this. He inhabits every line, especially the chorus, with rambunctious passion that fills “Lois Lane” with equal parts fire and meaning. The exceptional lyrics for the song gain even more thanks to what he brings to the table. The backing vocals utilized during the song are nearly sulfurous. Burris sounds like he’s been stewing and pining to sing this song all his life, and he gives it a life-or-death sense of importance that enhances my enjoyment of the tune.
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He’s a five-star singer and songwriter. It comes together for me with a single listen. Further plays only reinforce the track’s memorable qualities. Strange Company has the rare ability to create songs that get under the skin with a first acquaintance and continue entrancing listeners with each additional pass. There are high-profile bands who don’t possess this skill. I expect that they will only expand on these characteristics in the future. However, “Lois Lane” is a breathtaking start to a journey that promises to be grand. Let’s be grateful we’re getting on the Strange Company train early because the voyage going forward will treat its passengers to remarkable moments. Their talents are boundless and irrepressible.
Garth Thomas