After blessing us with “Holding On,” The War on Drugs returns with “Strangest Thing,” the second single from forthcoming album, ‘A Deeper Understanding.’

After captivating us already in 2017, Adam Granduciel and The War on Drugs return with “Strangest Thing.” “Strangest Thing” marks the second single from the collective’s forthcoming album, A Deeper Understanding.  Although “Strangest Thing” is nearly seven minutes in length, it’s an eventful, radiant, seven minutes.

“Strangest Thing” starts off beautifully, exhibiting control and poise initially.  Eventually, as the song progresses, it grows lusher, more expansive, and showcases amplified intensity.  The record never loses a sense of control, but it certain transforms into something more grandiose and epic.  Musically, this is captured through standard instrumentation, as well as the use of keyboards and synths.

Returning focus to the onset, Granduciel matches the poised, calm vibes vocally, singing tenderly, attuned to the subtlety of nuance.  There is no chorus separating the verses – Granduciel sings two consecutive verses.  Both are structured similarly, characterized by both gorgeousness and thoughtful restraint.  Following the conclusion of the second verse, the more pronounced sound and emotions of “Strangest Thing” begins to sink in.

Lyrically and vocally, there is more song.  The post-verse section functions like a chorus given the grandiose soundscape surrounding it as well as more assertive vocals, but it doesn’t feel like the chorus.  Genius labels it as the bridge lyrically, followed by an outro.  This is reasonable, even if this bridge sounds like one big wall of sound as opposed to leading to a summative section, such as the chorus.

Final Thoughts

Once again, The War on Drugs impress without a doubt. The progression of “Strangest Thing” is one of its best attributes.  Poise and control, followed by grandiosity that never crosses the line.  Ultimately, there’s nothing to cry foul about.  At nearly seven minutes, this is a lengthy record.  The grandiose section feels right, but if nitpicking, could The War on Drugs have closed out differently with more clarity? Just thinking out loud.

The War on Drugs • A Deeper Understanding • Atlantic • Release: 8.25.17

Photo Credit: Atlantic