Strawberry Seed

Description

Strawberry Seed, the third album by Big Bill, represents an evolutionary growth for the Austin rock band. While the album includes some of the sarcastic anthems they are known for in songs like "Poverty of Wires," "Throw it Away," and "Political Meat," much of the album feels warmer, with layers of acoustic guitar, synthesizers, piano, and backing vocals adding texture to their esoteric sound. Even when they opt for familiar angular riffs and propulsive drumming—provided by former White Denim drummer Jeff Olson, who joined the band in 2020 and produced most of this record—the subjects are more relevant than ever, and more political too. "Poverty of Wires" hits directly with a post-punk fervor and lyrics about how the rich are always tired of talking about the poor, and "Political Meat" rails against a sadly familiar cycle: "politely criticize; get spat out like mouthwash, rinse and repeat."