The Age of Violent Revolution

Strangejuice, the solo indie rock project from Australia, opens its latest album, “Common Behavior,” with this beautifully moving revolutionary anthem. Pulling off a song about decapitation with such a light and optimistic tone is no small feat – but they’ve accomplished that and more with “The Age of Violent Revolution”.

Warm electric guitar tones and soothing vocals threaten to lull us into a comfortable daze during the intro before brilliantly snapping us back to attention with the repeated line, “Had to leave my place 'cause I had no place.” Paired with a sustained chord and steady buildup, the moment creates a seamless transition from a relatively gentle verse into a powerful chorus.

“In the age of violent revolution the easiest solution was always to cut off the head.” Though undeniably grim at face value, the chorus repeats this line with an energy that's impossible to resist. The addition of layered vocals gives it the weight and momentum of a crowd united in song and I can’t help singing along. Is this how angry mobs form? As the vocalist continues the chant an octave higher, the song gradually intensifies and peaks with some powerful staccato stabs before dissipating again.

The song continues to keep things interesting with an extended instrumental passage before gradually winding down into a gentle outro. The closing lyrics paint what feels like an intentionally surreal picture of beauty, hope, and the simple joys: “And the flowers are free If you know how to find 'em. They're growing out of the big refrigerator island. It's okay to cut 'em and take 'em back to your house. Just watch out for the crocodile and the mouse.” It feels like a return to childlike innocence, bringing the song gracefully full circle – the revolution is over.