Manchester’s music scene boasts a rich history and Barely Strangers, the duo comprised of vocalist/guitarist Patrick Ryan and multi-instrumentalist Sam West (with drummer Tyler Bolton joining them live), are looking to add their chapter. Their debut single, “Mess Around,” skirts the line between wistfulness and youthful exuberance.
Evoking the 90s Britpop heydays, the track’s upbeat and infectious sound brings to mind a time when Britannia ruled the (air) waves! but with a modern indie twist that refuses to pigeonhole the band’s sound as merely nostalgic. Influences like The Stone Roses and The Smiths are evident in the jangly guitars and Ryan‘s yearning vocals. The track is catchy as hell with its sugar-sweet harmonies, driving lead guitar lines, and an instantly hummable hook that makes you want to join in after just one listen.
The duo emphasized the importance of their connection to their hometown, stating, “Staying connected to Manchester is everything. This city’s got soul, and it seeps into our music. We’re just channelling the vibe of our hometown.” This deep-rooted connection is palpable in their music and their identity as a band.
To promote their release, Barely Strangers have shared social media clips of themselves playing “Mess Around” in various city locations. Watching these videos, it’s clear the duo are having fun, and this passion is contagious. They also used this method to tease the new single “Find The Time” which is out now.
When asked about this latest release, the band said it “packs more punch—think less mucking about, more rock and roll swagger. Expect guitars that’ll knock your socks off and a more vintage influence.” While this is not an entirely new direction it does represent an exciting evolution and further shows their versatility.
Personally, one of the most appealing aspects of Barely Strangers’ music is its slightly rough-around-the-edges quality. The DIY ethos is strong with these two, as they handle the whole recording process in their own basement studio. This hands-on approach not only lends authenticity to their sound but also aligns them with the rich tradition of Manchester musical innovators. Their refreshingly unpolished approach makes their tracks stand out in a sea of overly produced tracks.
Looking to the future, Barely Strangers intend to continue this successful run, saying, “We record, mix and master everything ourselves, so our plan is to just keep bashing singles out. Our sound? It’s always evolving, just like we are, but aiming for that acousticy rock, guitar-based nostalgic sound.”
Barely Strangers have set the bar high with these first releases. Their confident songwriting, clear sonic focus, and DIY approach stand out in the current climate. If you’re looking for an honest sound with great tunes to boot, look no further than Barely Strangers. I, for one, can’t wait to see what they do next.
TRACKS:
