I have a feeling we will be hearing a whole lot of Strange Names‘ infectious music in the very near future. The best fitting description of Liam Benzvi, Francis Ximenez, and Fletcher Aleckson’s brand of indie pop is the same as the title of TLC’s second studio album: crazy, sexy, cool. Mixing tight basslines with quirky guitar riffs and insatiable refrains, the trio have mastered their smooth blend of pop, new wave, and funk. Originally from Minneapolis, Strange Names have relocated to New York City and rerecorded their entire debut album, Use Your Time Wisely. The resulting effervescent polish can be heard on the album’s first single, “Ricochet.” A soon to be summer anthem, the song’s buzzing bass and soaring chorus will quickly work their way into your musical memory. “Ricochet” is a fresh sound from a promising band with only more greatness to come. Use Your Time Wisely will be out May 19 on Frenchkiss Records.
If I’m being honest, I’ve been loving Strange Names ever since the classic song and video combo of the main single from their 2013 self-titled EP, “Potential Wife.” You can hear a little more of the crazy in this one.
“Just another day in the life, looking for my potential wife“
