B-Side Guys

After a seven-year hiatus, Los Angeles-based indie rock outfit Maudlin Strangers are back with a new lineup and a renewed sense of purpose. Their latest single, “Don’t Worry, I’m Fine,” is a testament to the power of taking time for oneself and the importance of self-reflection in the face of burnout and anxiety.

Written by frontman Jake Hays about his own experience with burnout, “Don’t Worry, I’m Fine” is a deeply personal and introspective track that will resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with mental health. The song’s lyrics are a powerful reminder that sometimes, the bravest thing we can do is take a step back and give ourselves the time and space we need to heal. Lines like “I needed the time to know what I wanted” and “You need to make time for your honest self” are a rallying cry for self-care and a reminder that it’s okay to prioritize our own well-being.

Musically, “Don’t Worry, I’m Fine” is a masterclass in the kind of lush, atmospheric indie rock that has earned Maudlin Strangers comparisons to acts like Arctic Monkeys and The Neighbourhood. The track’s shimmering guitars and dreamy synths create a hazy, almost ethereal soundscape that perfectly captures the song’s themes of introspection and self-discovery. Hays’ vocals, equal parts vulnerable and assured, are the perfect vehicle for the song’s message, conveying a sense of hard-won wisdom and resilience.

But “Don’t Worry, I’m Fine” is more than just a personal reflection – it’s also a powerful statement about the importance of destigmatizing mental health struggles in the music industry and beyond. By speaking openly about his own experiences with burnout and anxiety, Hays is helping to break down the barriers that prevent so many people from seeking the help they need. It’s a brave and necessary message, and one that feels particularly resonant in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has taken an enormous toll on the mental health of artists and fans alike.

Ultimately, “Don’t Worry, I’m Fine” is a triumphant return for Maudlin Strangers and a powerful reminder of the transformative power of self-care. With its lush instrumentation, intimate lyrics, and Hays’ soulful vocals, it’s a song that will stay with listeners long after the final notes have faded away. And as the band gears up for their first new releases in seven years, it’s clear that they have emerged from their hiatus with a renewed sense of purpose and a powerful message to share with the world. If “Don’t Worry, I’m Fine” is any indication, the future is bright for Maudlin Strangers – and for anyone who has ever struggled to find their way through the darkness.