Tragicomics are an alt-country collective from the northwest of the UK, and self-professed purveyors of sharply crafted pop songs, sweeping melancholy and doomed romanticism. Now the four-piece return with brand new single ‘Stranger Things’, an uplifting country-infused offering that flaunts a swinging vocal line and introspective lyrics alongside a sonically rich soundscape.
Tragicomics' ‘Stranger Things’ highlights the band’s versatility as it seamlessly shifts from its sunny disposition to softer dynamics in the outro, which introduces a lush orchestral break and wistful vocals, but snaps back into its vibrant origins in the final seconds to remind you of the journey.
Speaking about the inspiration behind the song, Tragicomics shared, “Stranger Things is a song about paralysis. Paralysis through indecision; waiting around for a change to come, and being unwilling - or unable - to make that change yourself. Nights spent staring into the sky, waiting for an answer that will never arrive. Realising your own faults and that there is no overcoming them. But, you know, it's also a playful, slightly daft country song. There are two sides to everything.”
The track was recorded at Pinhole Studio, where the band used some very old and well-loved gear - including original 60s tape delay and a vintage Leslie speaker - to capture some of the old-time country feel of the tune.
It was mixed by Adam Gorman and mastered by Frank Arkwright (The Smiths, New Order, Joy Division, Scott Walker) at Abbey Road, and features Matt O’Brien on bass. The new release also arrives alongside an official music video by LA visual artist Maria A Norris, which combines elements of stop motion with vintage Americana footage. There is no doubt that Tragicomics have strong creative ethics, making sure that each aspect of their release is a showcase for rich artistry; this includes the artwork for the single, an original painting by acclaimed artist Jude Wainwright.
ABOUT TRAGICOMICS
Tragicomics are Christopher Eatough (vocals, guitar), Toby Cryne (guitar, keys), Laura Morley (violin) and Jay Fearon (drums). Since 2017 Tragicomics have been writing, recording and releasing what Drowned in Sound described as ‘widescreen English Americana’. In 2021 Tragicomics released their second album ‘Book of Want’, drawing favourable reviews and comparisons to My Morning Jacket, Wilco and Blitzen Trapper.
In October 2022 they released ‘Hopeless Romantic’, also featuring artwork by award-winning painter Jude Wainwright, and were featured as UK Artist of the Month by the Vinyl District. They have played several shows around the UK including shows with Chris Stills, Sarah Shook & the Disarmers and The Lone Bellow. In August 2022 they filmed and recorded a live session at the prestigious Sacred Trinity Church in Salford. Later that year they hosted and headlined the sold-out event ‘Crossing the County Line’, the first in a series of alt-country showcases in the heart of Manchester. Tragicomics have also received support from acclaimed publications Louder Than War and Turn Up The Volume, and have also enjoyed radio plays from BBC Introducing and Amazing Radio. ‘Stranger Things’ is slated to release on April 21, 2023