Concept records can be a hit and miss in terms of substance, structure and the overall aesthetic of the finished product. Melbourne duo Big Scary have done well with the marketing idea behind their Four Seasons compilation, which is the amalgamation of tracks from their four EP’s Autumn, Winter, Spring and Summer. Much like the passing of the season’s themselves, The Big Scary Four Seasons LP charts the bands growth across the course of last year and displays a depth and breadth in song writing that is a sheer delight to the ears.
There is a stark variation in tone and texture between tracks such as “Summer” an elegantly arranged piano ballad and “Tuesday Is Rent Day” a rollicking sweaty haze of guitar and drums. Which I find to be one of the bands the strengths. In their quiet moments they are subtle, gorgeous and serenely moving, but they are also capable of turning it up a notch and cranking out rocking guitar riffs that were ready made for the dance floor.
Tom Iansek and Joanna Syme make music that is heartbreaking, whimsical and ultimately uplifting as they take you on a journey through a rich sonic landscape that is inherently beautiful in its construction. Early highlight “Hamilton” begins with soft guitars that explode in a passionate frenzied outburst of vocals and harsh strumming as the band moves from darkness to light all within the space of the same breath. The marching drums of “Autumn” coupled with the smooth piano and layered vocals lend this track an orchestral feel as it steadily moves forward like a soldier going into battle.
My only issue with The Big Scary Four Seasons is that it lacks the cohesive feel of an album and the two rockier tracks break away from the overall tone presented in the rest of the work, but this was to be expected with the collection of songs chosen to appear on the final compilation. If you’re unfamiliar with Big Scary’s music than now is the time to get involved as The Big Scary Four Seasons is a grand introduction to their sound. This record is a testament to the versatility and obscene level of talent of the players and I am eagerly anticipating hearing new material from them in the near future.
Review Score: 8/10
