Tami Pham

After an almost two-year-long hiatus, COIN jumps back into the studio with their single “Strawberry Jam.” Composed of Chase Lawrence, Ryan Winnen, and Joe Memmel, the trio returns with an ambient track that feels like summer.

In contrast to the more stylized and electric theme of their prior album, Uncanny Valley, “Strawberry Jam” reintroduces the band with a more stripped-down version of their original sound. With the warm guitar strums and rich notes from the harmonica, the single embodies the feeling of summer. Combined with Lawrence’s dynamic vocals, the song makes you feel like you’re watching the intro of a coming-of-age movie, or spending a picture-perfect night with your friends. 

The song speaks to how it feels to be insecure and overthink in a relationship. The lyrics come from someone unsure of what qualities they bring to the table as Lawrence repeats, “God only knows, What you see in me.” In the end, he sings about how it’s often easier to leave than stay, especially when you’re simply not in the right headspace to be in a relationship. While the earnest lyrics compel you to self-reflect, it is contrasted by the light melody.

This gentle vibe didn’t come without difficulty. Instead, it is a product of months of stagnancy. After the release of Uncanny Valley in March 2022, the band struggled to hold onto the momentum they had built up. While it was a difficult obstacle to overcome, the band found the solution in their authenticity. Instead of forcing themselves to write insincere songs that mocked their situation, they opted to take the time off to “unravel the truth”. 

Not only is this recent breakthrough represented in the tone of the song itself, but also in the cover art. With nothing but a red background, the trio emphasizes their desire to get back to simplicity and authenticity. “Strawberry Jam” not only welcomes a warm and carefree summer but also a new era of COIN. 

Listen here!