When we posted our list of list of most anticipated local records early this year, we predicted a narrative where established heavy bands — Big Jesus included — would help lead the way and occupy much of the discussion. So far that hasn’t happened. With the exception of O’Brother, many of the records we mentioned are still waiting to be released. Instead, it’s been the Atlanta and Athens DIY underground that has made most of the noise and dominated the narrative in 2016.
Meanwhile, despite the high expectations for their upcoming full-length debut, Oneiric, Big Jesus has had a turbulent year. In February, the group had their van and equipment stolen in Grant Park. What could have been a major financial setback, however, was mitigated when the Atlanta music community rallied around them and helped them to raise the money ahead of their tour supporting the aforementioned O’Brother.
Yesterday, the group continued their upswing when they released the LP’s first single via Noisey. “SP” is a big riff thriller that alludes to the brawny, spaced-out rock of bands like Deftones and Cave In mixed with the melodic, scuzzy pop overtones of Torche. Whenever I see the letters “SP,” I think immediately of Smashing Pumpkins being as that’s how I would refer to the group in their heyday. And, truth be told, Big Jesus approach their songs with similar intentions in the sense that they don’t allow the muscular grooves that define their sound to get in the way of crafting more ambient, delicate, or ornate passages. They’re a heavy rock band, to be sure, but they’re one that also seeks out majestic peaks and grand valleys, and “SP” fits impressively into that exploratory mold. Listen below.
Oneiric has no release date as of yet, but should be out this fall. Big Jesus will play Wrecking Ball ATL on August 13-14.
More Info
Web: bigjesus.net
Bandcamp: bigjesus.bandcamp.com
Facebook: @bigassjesus
Instagram: @bigassjesus
Twitter: @bigassjesus