I Don’t Need Your Permission
Hygh Tension, 2025
10/10
Listen to I Don’t Need Your Permission
The Minneapolis guitarist, singer, author and former lawyer, Mary Strand, is joined by Ryan Smith, Mark Wade and Jack Strand for these diverse rock tunes that might bring to mind Joan Jett or Chrissie Hynde.
The driving guitar rock spirit of “Take Your Time” opens with Strand’s melodic and distinct vocals alongside Jack’s thumping drums, and “Yours Until Tomorrow” follows with Smith’s melodic guitar and Wade’s playful bass in a heartfelt climate.
Further along, “Stay Or Let This Go” carries a warm mood and plenty of retro nods in its frisky nature, while “Least Of All Her” builds into a gritty and fluid modern rocker that showcases the meticulous rhythm section and some dreamy waves.
Deeper still, “If We Could” uses soulful backing vocals and scrappy punk rock nods, and “Does Any Of This Really Matter” enlists some folk-rock sensibilities that has Smith handling sitar and mellotron, as Strand’s inviting voice guides the sophistication.
Strand’s band have an impressive resume that includes playing in Soul Asylum, The Melismatics and Outta Coentro, and her vintage rock vision will make anyone a fan who is willing to take the journey.
Travels well with: Stephen Jacques- Pioneers And Fragrant Flowers; The Scarlet Goodbye- Speedway