“FOR ALL OF US (Dear Taylor)” By Mary Strand

In her most recent release, “For All of Us (Dear Taylor),” upcoming rock artist Mary Strand takes a striking approach by blending two genres with social commentary, highlighting the power and tenacity of women in the media. Drawing inspiration from the criticism aimed at “Taylor Swift” during the Super Bowl in 2024 for mingling with the worlds of politics, celebrity culture, and aggressive fandom, Strand composes a tribute that oscillates between gratitude and a call to arms. It is a track that combines the unrefined spirit of garage rock with the polish of pop and ache of raw emotion, serving up gut-wrenching yet invigorating sonic and lyrical composition. This is the third single from her upcoming album I Don’t Need Your Permission.

From the very first bars, “For All of Us” comes across as more than a tribute; it is, rather, a statement. Strand’s fierce singing registers with purpose and focus, sitting high in the mix, as gritty guitars and pounding drums provide the backdrop. There is a drive to the rhythm, accompanied by the feeling that this message simply had to be delivered right away. The presence of seasoned performers like Ryan Smith (Soul Asylum, The Melismatics), Mark Wade (The Mood Swings), and Jack Strand (Outta Coentro) propels the band: their sound is tight, focused, and confidently rough around the edges. This band knows exactly what to say and how to say it to the audience.

Strand lyrically does not shy away from any lines. The first pre-chorus, “You live each day with a target on your back And the more you slay, the more they attack,” garners attention. It calls out the relentless onslaught of criticism high-profile women face simply for achieving something in life. However, the second pre-chorus is where the heart of the song lies, “You show us how to live without fear And keep hitting the gas while they’re stuck in first gear.” These lines do not merely celebrate “Swift’s” achievements but rather honor her impact as a forefront figure to other people, especially young women who are navigating a world that harshly punishes confidence and ambition.

The track itself sits at a sweet intersection of garage rock’s gritty textures, punk rock’s defiance, and power pop’s anthemic uplift, blending seamlessly. It is very much contained and dynamic, going from bubbling verse to explosive chorus. “Smith’s” lead guitar work captures both edges of the melody, while “Wade” and “Jack Strand” on the bass and drums fall into a rhythm that moves the track forward without taking away from its message. The production balances polish and rawness, creating space for the emotion of Strand’s performance to shine yet maintaining clarity.

“For All of Us (Dear Taylor)” fits perfectly within the overarching themes of “I Don’t Need Your Permission,” an album that Strand has positioned as a statement of empowerment and autonomy. Where her debut Golden Girl showcased her versatility and songwriting chops, this second outing promises a more cohesive and assertive artistic voice. And with this single, Strand not only makes a case for “Swift’s” enduring influence but also stakes her claim as a voice worth listening to, one that speaks not just to an icon, but for the many who find courage and inspiration in the wake of such public resilience.

Mary Strand has delivered more than just a timely single; she’s given listeners a bold and unapologetic anthem. “For All of Us (Dear Taylor)” is a celebration of strength in the face of adversity, a reminder of the power of solidarity, and a declaration that women, especially those in the arts, will not be silenced or shamed. It’s a standout track from a rising artist who has much more to say and the voice, band, and vision to back it up.