“Silver Sting” returns to streaming services on Jan. 31, 2025 with new mixes.
The three-track maxi single was originally released in 2015 as part of a multi-month campaign preceding the release of Retrograde Songs, a compilation of b-side tracks. Eponymous 4 had released only albums and EPs up to that point, but the tracks on Retrograde Songs didn’t feel cohesive enough to justify being called an album.
“Silver Sting” was the second of six singles released in 2015, with Retrograde Songs following later that year. The two additional tracks were songs commissioned by friends in high school. “Strivers for a Better Tomorrow” was performed live by an entire graduating class! The version on the single does not contain vocals. “Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow” was also commissioned by another high school friend, but it wasn’t used for the final performance.