"Big Red Announces Debut Album and Tour"
Big Red, the musical project of Joseph Scarisbrick, is set to make waves with the release of their debut album, Big Sur, due out on October 30th. Following the acclaim gained from their initial single “Isn’t He Funny” and an impressive performance at Third Man Record’s Blue Basement, anticipation for this album is at an all-time high.
Scarisbrick, previously known for his work with The Orchestra (For Now), envisioned this project as a space for exploring music beyond his prior endeavors. Joined by drummer Charlie Hancock and bassist/vocalist Millie Kirby, Big Red has evolved into a collaborative trio. The album was crafted over a series of sessions in London and Santa Cruz, California, culminating in a live recording in Devon, making it an authentic representation of their sound.
To celebrate the album announcement, Big Red has released a new single, “Mission St.” This track, a staple in their live performances, showcases the band’s unique ability to blend sorrowful themes with upbeat instrumentation. Scarisbrick describes the song as a “sad song masquerading as an upbeat loud banger,” illustrating the nuanced emotional landscape it covers. The lyrics touch on the feeling of witnessing someone fade away, reflecting personal experiences from Scarisbrick’s childhood.
In Big Sur, the titular west coast destination becomes symbolic rather than literal—a metaphorical exploration of desire, loss, and longing. As the narrative unfolds, California transforms from a tangible location into an idealized dream, which remains perpetually out of reach. By the end of the album, Scarisbrick reveals a poignant realization: “We never made it to Big Sur / I guess this kind of looks the same,” encapsulating the deeper themes present throughout the project.
Musically, Big Sur challenges traditional forms by employing a raw, live-recorded approach. The production features minimal overdubs and captures the immediate sounds of the trio jamming together. This creates an atmosphere that feels intimate and urgent, where each note carries a weight of honesty and vulnerability. The closing moments of the album, featuring the sound of Scarisbrick and Hancock in tears after recording, emphasize the emotional stakes behind the music.
To support the album release, Big Red will embark on their first headline tour this November, following an anticipated performance at the End Of The Road Festival on September 5th. Fans can look forward to dates across key UK cities, including Brighton, Manchester, and London, showcasing their dynamic live presence.
The album Big Sur is available for pre-order now, promising a fresh take on Americana that rejects nostalgia in favor of more direct, confessional songwriting. With its captivating sound and deeply personal themes, Big Red is poised to make a substantial impact in the music scene this fall. Keep an eye on their journey, as they take the stage with new music that’s bound to resonate with listeners.
