Talking About Ray – Mess Around (2025)
With a similar sound to The Cranberries and Paramore, pop-punk-influenced, female-fronted trio Talking About Ray has been playing shows in their native Scotland, sharing the bill with legendary acts like Squeeze. Talking About Ray’s debut single ‘Escapade’ was released 12 months ago and showcased lead singer Sarah Monteith-Skelton’s Scottish twang against a Nirvana-esque backdrop. ‘Better Days’ was another fine track by the trio. To me, it is reminiscent of ‘Mr Jones’ by Counting Crows. Today, however, we take a listen to the fourth single from this group – ‘Mess Around’.
‘Mess Around’ is a track that packs a punch, and there’s stunning instrumentation throughout. It is uplifting and euphoric indie-rock. At just shy of three and a half minutes, it is the perfect length for radio play. Possessing a lovely opening with Reece Ryan’s chugging guitar working in unison with Ronan Guy’s drums, the song then bursts into life the same way it does in the chorus.
“You’ll mess around / get lost and get found there someday. Everyone tries to realise / and know exactly what to say” – These lyrics smack of frustration and not getting the rewards for the fruit of your labour. The track isn’t bitter though, but reflective, and looks upon the experience as a lesson learnt. “I apologise / All I needed was another pooch / It gives me butterflies / And a different kind of attitude” are concise, clever lyrics which are open to interpretation by the lucky listener.
‘Mess Around’ offers wonderful intensity laced with fantastic drumming and guitar work, and is the sound of a tight band full of confidence and vigour, who have hit the ground running in a short space of time with solid singles. This band is one to follow for the remainder of 2025 and beyond!
Find out more about Talking About Ray on their Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, TikTok and Spotify.
