Maudlin Strangers Release “End of Beginning” (Djo Cover). They do it justice, keeping it true to the original while adding their unique style. Well done!

The band notes, “This is a cover of an amazing song by Djo (the alternate personality of Joe Keery of Stranger Things fame). This song has been stuck in my head ever since I first heard it. The nostalgia Joe brings in the chorus spoke volumes to me, making me feel as if it were the end of summer vacation in a town you have to leave, and the heartache that comes with it. I wanted to do my own version with more epic dynamics, just for my personal preference. I also decided to put my own spin on the bridge to make it different from the original. I hope if Joe hears it, he’d approve.”

Maudlin Strangers, the brainchild of Los Angeles native Jake Hays, began as a solo indie rock project in 2010. After a handful of independent releases and forming a band with close friends, they signed with BMG/Vagrant Records to release their label-debut “Overdose” EP in 2015. They subsequently toured with label-mate Bad Suns across the US and Canada. Following a west coast tour with pop-trio LANY, they toured as direct support for Cold War Kids on their North America/Canada tour before going on hiatus in 2016. Fast forward to 2023, Maudlin Strangers re-emerge with a new lineup of close friends: original member Richie Gonzales on drums, Alexander “Schmorgle” Morgan on guitar/keys, and Drew Bruchs on bass. Their hiatus-breaking single “I’m Not In The Right Mind” is streaming everywhere now.