John Deering is back, and this time, he’s taking us on a gritty, unapologetic journey through the heart of America with his new single Strip Mall Jesus, premiering exclusively on Apricot Magazine ahead of its official release on March 15, 2025. Hailing from Minneapolis, Deering crafts a sound that echoes the raw energy of the ‘90s rock era, channeled through his own deeply personal storytelling. With influences ranging from Nirvana to Pearl Jam, this track is a testament to his ability to turn real-life experiences into music that resonates with intensity and authenticity.
Deering didn’t do this alone. Strip Mall Jesus comes to life with the help of key collaborators, including his mentor Ryan Smith of Soul Asylum, who played a pivotal role in refining the arrangement and shaping the song into what it is today. Adding to the mix is drummer Peter Anderson of Run Westy Run, whose tight, driving rhythms propel the track forward with undeniable force. The result? A song that hits like a gut punch—raw, real, and unfiltered.
At its core, Strip Mall Jesus is a story of contradictions—the clash between faith and commercialization, salvation and self-destruction, hope and hopelessness. Deering paints a vivid picture of a world where spirituality is repackaged and sold alongside fast food and discount liquor stores, where neon crosses flicker above empty parking lots. It’s a critique, a confession, and a cathartic anthem all rolled into one. His lyrics cut deep, offering both biting social commentary and deeply personal reflection, making the track feel both universal and intimate.
The production process behind Strip Mall Jesus is just as compelling as the song itself. Deering, embodying the true spirit of independent artistry, recorded much of the track in his own basement studio, embracing a DIY approach that only adds to the track’s raw energy. But it’s his unconventional vocal recording setup that stands out—his makeshift “Shudio,” a tiny bathroom converted into a vocal booth, was humorously named by his daughters. In that small space, Deering’s voice takes on an almost primal quality, capturing every ounce of frustration, passion, and intensity that defines the song.
Sonically, Strip Mall Jesus blends grunge’s unpolished grit with a melodic sensibility that keeps listeners hooked from start to finish. The guitars are thick and gritty, the drums hit hard, and Deering’s vocals carry an urgency that demands attention. There’s a certain unpredictability to the song—it builds and crashes, ebbs and flows, keeping you on edge in the best way possible. It’s the kind of song that doesn’t just play in the background—it pulls you in and refuses to let go.
For Deering, this release marks an exciting return to songwriting after years of honing his craft. He’s not chasing trends or trying to fit into a mold—he’s simply making music that feels real, that speaks to the complexities of life, and that isn’t afraid to challenge listeners. In an industry saturated with polished, overproduced tracks, Strip Mall Jesus stands out as a raw, honest, and deeply human piece of music.
With the release date fast approaching, the buzz around Strip Mall Jesus is building. Fans of Deering’s previous work and newcomers alike are in for something special—something that doesn’t just entertain but also provokes thought and emotion. This is more than just a song; it’s a statement, a reflection, and a call to wake up and take a closer look at the world around us.
John Deering is back, and if Strip Mall Jesus is any indication of what’s to come, we’re in for a thrilling ride. Don’t miss the premiere of this powerhouse single—press play, turn it up, and let it take you where only the best music can.
