Mary Strand is a Minneapolis-based artist whose creative voice extends beyond music into storytelling and novel writing, making her a truly unique figure in the rock music scene. Since making her debut in 2022 with a series of compelling singles, she’s been forging an original sound that fuses her love for story-driven songwriting with an energetic, genre-blending approach.
Her first full-length album, Golden Girl, arrived the following year, establishing her as a name to watch. Now, as she gears up for the release of her sophomore record, I Don’t Need Your Permission, she continues to stake her claim as an exciting artist on the rise with an engaging, high-energy sound.
Mary’s musical journey has evolved alongside her band, Mary Strand & The Garage, a group that’s been instrumental in bringing her sound to life. With guitarist and singer Ryan Smith of Soul Asylum, bassist and vocalist Mark Wade and her own son, Jack Strand, on drums, the outfit has driven Mary’s music into an exciting new era, blending elements of garage rock, punk and power pop into an infectious, rebellious sound.
Announcing the forthcoming record with the lead single, “Take Your Time,” released via Hygh Tension Records/Virgin Music Group in January, Mary Strand now brings us the second taste of what’s to come with the latest track lifted from the album, “Costa Rica.” Taking inspiration from a chaotic family trip, rather than focusing on the stress of travel mishaps, the track flips the experience into an anthem about embracing life’s unpredictability.
“Costa Rica” serves up a fusion of garage rock and power pop, packed with instantly catchy hooks and a whirlwind of driving guitars and punchy rhythms. Kicked off by the wailing twang of lead guitar and crunchy rhythms, the arrangement launches with pulsing bass lines, steadily grooving drums and the smooth vocal leads of Mary and Ryan spinning memorable melodic leads above.
Capturing an upbeat vibe, the band lays down a slick pop-focused indie rock outing that’s guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Cut with superb musicianship and playful lyricism, “Costa Rica” sees Mary Strand and her band deliver another epic rock jam that continues to build the hype for her highly anticipated second album.
Listen to Costa Rica below
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