Strict unveils haunting new single and video “Human Wishes”

Strict, the fresh musical venture led by Quicksand’s Sergio Vega (formerly of Deftones) and his wife Azu Rodriguez, have released their second single “Human Wishes” accompanied by a stylized music video. Directed by A.F. Cortés and produced by acclaimed studio wizard Will Yip (Turnstile, The Wonder Years, Code Orange) the track marks a compelling follow-up to their November 2024 debut single “Say It.”

Musically the song expands on the duo’s sonic palette, weaving elements of shoegaze, alt-rock, and post-punk into an immersive soundscape. The production is rich with atmospheric layers and emotional tension, showcasing the band’s evolution from their first single’s more industrial edge. Yip’s signature touch brings clarity and depth, amplifying the track’s dynamic shifts and mood.

The video enhances the song’s haunting tone with arresting visuals and a narrative that mirrors the track’s emotional complexity. Cortés’s direction leans into the surreal, creating a vivid dreamlike world that reflects the song’s lyrical introspection.

Strict’s debut “Say It” introduced their collaborative chemistry with pulsing electronics and raw textures. With “Human Wishes”, they push further into melodic territory without losing their edge, revealing a maturing artistic voice that hints at even more compelling material on the horizon.