Mary Strand delivers a compelling rock anthem that urges listeners to slow down and think before making life-altering choices. With powerful instrumentals and heartfelt lyrics, this song resonates deeply with the youth who are eager to achieve everything all at once but may need a moment to breathe.
The track immediately hits with a nostalgic 90s rock energy, transporting listeners back to the days of youthful ambition, schoolyard dreams, and perhaps even that long-forgotten garage band. The composition is both lively and soulful, blending raw passion with a carefully crafted sound that makes you want to listen on repeat. The music isn’t just there to entertain—it evokes emotion, stirring memories of past loves, old friendships, and the important life lessons that shape us.
Lyrically, “Take Your Time” stands out as an anthem of self-worth and empowerment. Strand crafts a story that encourages patience in life’s big decisions, a sentiment that many can relate to. The song urges listeners to trust themselves but also to be mindful—not to rush into choices they might regret. One of the track’s most powerful moments is when it reminds us that sometimes, taking a step back is the best way to move forward.
Beyond the music, the song has an intriguing backstory. Initially inspired by a songwriting challenge with the prompt “strut,” Strand crafted a narrative of a self-assured yet egotistical man strutting down Hennepin Avenue in Minneapolis. Drawing from her own experiences as a lawyer, she masterfully weaves a story of a woman who has finally moved on from a toxic relationship—confident, empowered, and unapologetically free. It’s not just a breakup song; it’s a triumphant declaration of independence.
Musically, the song is a fusion of punk, garage rock, and power pop, embodying a raw, energetic spirit that feels both rebellious and exhilarating. During the recording process, the track stood out so much that it was chosen as the lead single for Strand’s upcoming album, I Don’t Need Your Permission. With its infectious sound and relatable message, “Take Your Time” is more than just a song—it’s a movement, encouraging listeners to embrace life at their own pace.
