Stealing Sheep knows what it takes to stand out in the modern synth pop scene. From Liverpool, UK, the experimental pop band’s latest release is a bold, yet a promising departure from their earlier works. The all-girl group formed in 2010, and have gathered three impressive full-length albums under their belt ever since. Their sound has interestingly enough progressed from folk and rock inspired pop to completely electronically-synthesized production, drawing similarities from iconic 80s synth pop artists like New Order and Depeche Mode.
Fizzy synths and contagiously catchy drum loops aren’t just what make Big Wows such an adventurous work. Conceptually, the album is a response to living in a world run by technology. The odd futuristic-sounding sound effects and synths are a representation of “TVs, computers, and everyday glitches” according to Bex, the band’s frontwoman. The minimal and conversational lyrics add the perfect amount of realism along with the album’s many abstract elements. Mellow tracks like “Just Dreaming” and “Heartbeats” show off with some eccentric chord changes and soaring melodies that complement them, while bubbly anthems like “Jokin’ Me” and “Back In Time” contain tight, upbeat production that’s impossible not to dance to. Countless layers of pads, harmonies and synth countermelodies create a colorful world of chaos, brought to life by the each of the girls’ expressive and characteristic vocals.
Big Wows carries valuable social commentary, but its light and fun side is just as pronounced–knowing when to let loose, and when to take itself seriously. If you’re craving new synth pop that pushes the boundaries a little, definitely check out Big Wows:
Don’t miss Stealing Sheep’s show at Great Scott tonight at 8:30 p.m. EST, tickets are available here!