Big Wave’s twee, lo-fi, surf-pop sound could just as likely be recognised as an export from the West coast of America than the Southwest coast of England. The Torquay quintet have released a promising 5-track EP entitled ‘The Roots Of Love (Come Tumbling Down)’ this week through Soft Power Records.
The self-produced video ‘Another Year Or Two’ had caught my attention a few months ago and this EP, upon which it features, has put in context the contingency of Big Wave’s music. They keep it light and cutesy – you can play it in the car with your Mum – yet it keeps you on your feet and remains interesting throughout and therefore cannot be tarnished as samey.
Particular highlights arise from opener ‘ Circumstance’, with its energetic drums underneath slacking guitars and vocals, and the up-tempo and dynamically moving ‘Leaver’s Party’, which exposes pop hooks resonate in your memory.
‘The Roots Of Love’ is an uplifting, positive and fun record, suitable for fans of early Best Coast (before she started either whining about first world problems and/or promoting how great California is). Torquay is just as good, according to Big Wave.
[Rating:3.5]
