SMT presents: 10 Questions with Big Scary

Big Scary are a two-piece undaunted by expectation or artistic pretence. Art is not what Tom Iansek and Jo Syme chase. It may be the end result, but it’s clear from their six EPs and critically acclaimed debut Vacation, they’re not afraid to let contrasting influences guide their creative process. A philosophy that has landed them a spot on North American label Barsuk Records (home to Death Cab For Cutie) for their latest album.

Not Art displays the duo’s continued evolution, extending beyond the garage rock and pop sensibilities of their earlier work in pursuit of loops and hip hop inspired drum breaks. Nods to DJ Shadow’s 1996 debut Endtroducing indicative of the eclectic mix of genres they’ve embraced. Broadening, not abandoning, their alt-pop sound.

On the eve of Not Art’s release, Tom and Jo took some time out to discuss the album, life as independent musicians and hypothetical apparel. SUPERMEGATREND varsity jackets may be a while off, but should they ever eventuate we’ll put Big Scary down for two.





Not Art is released Friday June 28 in Australia and New Zealand, with a North American release through Barsuk Records scheduled for September 17. Stream it here (until June 29) and buy it here.