How I Found Them
Red Clay Strays-Devil in my Ear premiered on June 14, 2024.
I happen to be a big fan of Jensen Ackles’ musical talent. If I’m lucky enough to catch a performance of his, I take full advantage. He and Steve Carlson comprise the band called Radio Company. Ackles can be found sharing his vocal talents at events he attends throughout Europe and the US. It was at one of these events that Ackles sang the cover of a song called “Wondering Why.”
I immediately fell in love with it. So much so, I had to find out more about it.
This of course, led me directly to the Red Clay Strays.
A Breakout Year
Red Clay Strays were formed in Alabama in 2016 and they are currently amidst a breakout year. It is a pleasure to put pen-to-paper to congratulate them on their popularity and success. I’d also like to shine a spotlight on another song of theirs called Devil In My Ear.
Devil In My Ear
My initial listen of this song, combined with the video produced to showcase it, garnered a pretty strong reaction. Had you been a fly on the wall, you would have witnessed this fan irrevocably moved. This track is that powerful.
This song was written by the Strays’ guitarist Drew Nix. It shines a light on mental health issues involving depression, anxiety and self-doubt. Nix has shared that this song resulted from his own struggles to understand why someone, even a person with talent, a loving family and good friends would grapple with the notion that their lives don’t matter. Not only are the lyrics a profound rendering of those raw emotions, but the music video, directed by Matthew Coleman, offers up moving imagery that epitomizes the insidious nature and devastating effects of what can happen when a person’s state of mind begins to spiral.
Glimmer of Hope
Not only does this song raise awareness on the prevalence of mental health issues, but it also offers a glimmer of hope. The video ends with a call to action for anyone who finds themselves, or anyone they know, in need of support. A lifeline is out there.
The Red Clay Strays are Brandon Coleman (lead vocals, guitar), Drew Nix (electric guitar, vocals, harmonica), Zach Rishel (electric guitar), Andrew Bishop (bass) and John Hall (drums).
I have only just discovered The Red Clay Strays, but you can be damn sure that this writers’ search through their musical offerings has only just begun. I’m smitten!
Original source article published on TWE Daily.
