Rum Jungle, the Australian alt-rock quartet, are set to release their debut album, Recency Bias, on February 21, 2025. Following a sold-out UK/EU tour, including a triumphant performance at London’s Village Underground, the band’s new single, ‘Don’t Be A Stranger,’ is out now, joining the previously released tracks ‘Weather’s Better’ and ‘Chauffeur.’
With their signature blend of gritty anthems and heartfelt ballads, Rum Jungle capture the essence of introspection and reflection. Recency Bias is a testament to their evolution and the powerful influence of recent experiences.
‘Don’t Be A Stranger,’ encapsulates the complex emotions of returning home after a long tour. The song delves into the excitement and apprehension of reconnecting with loved ones, fearing that time and distance may have changed their relationship.
Vocalist and guitarist Benny McIntyre says of the single:
This was a tune that went through a bunch of different versions before it made it to all the lads. It really took shape once that riff was added, we had the skeleton then Maje ripped this mad riff, originally in a different spot which we then shifted to fit there and it became the best part of the track. We’re hoping this can be a huge track to play live and having rehearsed it a bit now it’s already so fun to play. Hope people listened feel just as good as I do every time I hear the riff come in for the first time.
The album was born from weeks of dedicated work at Lakehouse Audio on Australia’s Central Coast, alongside producer Simon. During their off-tour days, the band retreated to the studio to experiment, refine, and shape their sound. The serene environment of Simon’s home studio, nestled in peaceful surroundings, provided the perfect backdrop for creativity. With family, chickens, and a cat named Pinky as constant companions, the band found solace and inspiration away from the hectic touring schedule.
The announcement follows on from previous single, ‘Chauffer’. The track draws on the band’s influences of indie rock and good times and is a chiller addition to their growing discography.
A captivating single with a strong bass line that harmonises melodically with catchy choruses and energetic rhythms. ‘Chauffeur’ encourages self-confidence and embracing the journey of self-discovery. Of the track, vocalist and lyricist Benny states:
Listening back to the very original voice memo, the first verse actually ended up being heaps close to what I mumbled over the out-of-tune chords the first time it was ever played. Which is sick. Sometimes a track just falls out of thin air into your hands when you’re chasing it the most.
‘Chauffeur’ is neatly juxtaposed with its opposite, B-side, ‘Move to Cali’, a call enticing a wandering dreamer to relocate to California, a location romanticised for its prosperity and affluence, only to discover that it remains perpetually elusive.
The single was once again crafted on long days alongside engineer Jack Nigro, and even longer nights with Tasker with whom the band crafted their previous single, ‘Did The Morning Let You Down’.
Rum Jungle sold out 80% of their UK tour, based around this year’s The Great Escape, and even sold out London’s Omeara 4 weeks in advance.
