Featured Tune: "Take Your Time" from Mary Strand

Mary Strand's latest single "Take Your Time" is a delightful fusion of punk energy and pop sensibility that tells the story of a woman's liberation from a relationship with refreshing optimism. Set against the backdrop of downtown Minneapolis, the track follows a protagonist watching her ex – a suited-up professional – strutting down Hennepin Avenue, completely unaware that his former partner couldn't be happier without him.

The production, helmed by Ryan Smith and Mark Wade, strikes a perfect balance between raw power and polished refinement. The interplay between Jack Strand's energetic drums and Mark Wade's driving bass creates a solid foundation, while Ryan Smith and Mary Strand's guitars weave together in an electrifying dance. Strand's vocals are particularly noteworthy, carrying both grit and melody in equal measure as she delivers lines like "I couldn't be better, I'm feeling great" with authentic conviction.

What sets "Take Your Time" apart is its unique take on the break-up song formula. Instead of wallowing in heartache, it celebrates the freedom that comes after letting go of "dead weight." The bridge section showcases Strand's growing sophistication as a songwriter, providing a musical twist that elevates the entire composition.

As the first single from her upcoming album "I Don't Need Your Permission," "Take Your Time" demonstrates a significant evolution from her 2023 debut "Golden Girl." The track manages to channel the spirit of '90s alternative rock while maintaining a fresh, contemporary edge. It's the kind of song that makes you want to dance around your room, fist in the air, celebrating your own moments of triumph – whether you're getting over an ex or just having a great day.