The Red Clay Strays really know how to bring it.
That’s never really been a doubt since the band from Mobile, Alabama burst onto the scene in 2022 after forming some six years prior. The group stayed true to themselves, continuing to lean on stellar songwriting and lead man Brandon Coleman’s powerful voice, and it paid off. They’ve now released two studio albums: Moment of Truth and Made By These Moments.
Their latest project – produced by Dave Cobb – takes a look at the complicated chaos of everyday life. Topics touched on include conflict, mortality, emotions, and the sometimes melancholy feeling that can come with chasing aspirations. Brandon Coleman took to social media to share a preview of sorts about the band’s sophomore album:
“The hardships and uncertainties in life are something that can never be comprehended by any person. We will never fully understand why we choose to hurt each other or why bad things happen to good people day after day. This iniquitous reality paired with the unbearable weight of the world will quickly leave you feeling alone, powerless, and without hope…
There is always achievement after endurance. This album is a direct result of persevering through the many difficult times we ourselves have faced both personally and as a band. ‘Made By These Moments’ shines a light on overcoming the battles we face in life, like loneliness, depression, and hopelessness. We hope you listen and recognize that our pain has a purpose.”
The 11-song track list that Made By These Moments provides the soulful, rocking soul and blues that the Red Clay Strays have become synonymous with. That’s on full display with the album’s opening track, “Disaster,” where the narrator battles and contemplates with a world that’s slipping away.
It’s anthemic and full of energy, and the lines of the song really come to life thanks to Coleman’s distinctive delivery:
“So what do you have to say about saints?They’re no better than the one they say the world taintsIf you’re looking for a prophet, I’ll tell ya, I ain’tBut I know when it’s gonna rain
So what do you have to say about life?The One we laid down who turned dark to lightThe world let Him down, so He came aroundWhen disaster struck again.”
And when the band was a guest on CBS Mornings this past weekend, they elected to bring the house down with a live performance of “Disaster.” In my opinion, the Red Clay Strays couldn’t have picked a better song to win over potential fans. It brings everything to table, from their southern rock sound to their classic-country-esque songwriting and storytelling.
Ironically, this “Disaster” performance couldn’t have gone any better: