An early contender for summertime anthem of 2017, “Bright Eyes” – the sunny and outrageously catchy second single from country crossover duo The Orchard’s acclaimed third album The Great Unknown – drops June 5 via Royalty Records.

Make space on your seasonal playlist. While The Orchard – a.k.a. singing/songwriting duo Kasha Anne and Mitch Smith – are well known for crafting brilliantly accessible, lyrically driven songs best described as "a cosmic blend of rock, country and pop" – the sheer lustre and lyrical heft of “Bright Eyes” is terrifically new.

The song “encourages you to live in the moment and be more optimistic,” vocalist Kasha Anne offers, “which is something we all need from time to time.”

Adds Smith, “’Bright Eyes’ showcases a rocking groove by our killer band with lots of fun guitar parts. It’s probably one of our most energetic singles, and it always gets people on their feet!”

Indeed, the track was a favourite of The Great Unknown producer Jim Scott whose sprawling CV includes work with everyone from Wilco to Tedeschi Trucks Band, Tom Petty to the Foo Fighters. Scott knows a bona fide smash when he hears one.