Rising country quintet The Red Clay Strays released their latest single, “Devil in My Ear,” last Friday. The rock-leaning tune has singer Brandon Coleman despairing over a pervasive demon on his shoulder influencing his decisions and stifling his peace of mind. As the Strays’ second new single of 2024, it showcases their diverse sound and a hard rock force that isn’t heard in most of their music.
Throughout the verses, Coleman’s plaintive voice wavers over distorted blues guitars washed in reverb and a flange effect that adds to the song’s bluesy, swampy vibe. The choruses amp up the energy level, with drummer John Hall bringing the heat up to level 10 and driving a heavy, blistering beat. “Devil in My Ear” ends with a powerful outro with dueling guitars that bring to mind Duane Allman and Dickey Betts’ harmonizing lead guitars.
The Strays are currently on tour, so you don’t have to wait to hear them rock the hell out of this song live. See if they’re coming to your city here, and check out “Devil in My Ear” below: