Liverpool’s STR^NGE Unveil Hauntingly Honest New Single ‘Crying Shame’

Liverpool's shape-shifting alt-rock risers STR^NGE return with their most soul-baring work yet: a powerful new single titled Crying Shame. Known for their theatrical flair and raw energy, the band’s latest release strips things back sonically—while delving deeper than ever emotionally.

Frontman and songwriter James lays it all bare on Crying Shame, drawing directly from a dark chapter in his life. “It’s about my time in university where I became addicted to drugs,” he shares. “I felt terribly down and filled my days with heroin, ketamine and benzodiazepines. It's a wonder I was able to write this song at all; every line is rooted in reality.”

Crafted with an unflinching sense of vulnerability, the track trades the band’s usual gritty distortion for something more cinematic. Produced by Amelia Danby at Kempston Street Studios, with co-production from Chris Taylor (Miles Kane, The Coral, Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds), Crying Shame pivots toward a Tom Waits-esque moodiness, with lush strings and waltzing piano underpinning James' intimately expressive vocal performance.

“I knew that the track had to have contrast,” James continues, “so punctuating those lyrics with a waltzing time signature felt like the most natural thing to do. But I didn’t want to lose the emotional impact—so the sweeping strings keep it grounded. It doesn’t give way to the ridiculous.”

This artistic evolution reflects a band unafraid to explore new territory. STR^NGE—formed by Chrissy (formerly of The Mysterines) alongside James, David, and Leon—have long cited influences like David Bowie and Talking Heads. Their sound has always bent genre boundaries, but Crying Shame marks a bold step into more poetic, theatrical songwriting that still feels deeply personal.

The single comes off the back of a breakout live year for STR^NGE, having sold out headline shows across Liverpool, closed the 'Joy' stage at Future Now Festival, and supported Demob Happy at the Arts Club. With Crying Shame, the band prove that their upward momentum isn’t just driven by energy—but by courage, craft, and a willingness to confront the pain that so often lies beneath the performance.

Crying Shame is out now on all streaming platforms. Listen below: