There are a select number bands within the UK alternative scene that seem to have a distinct buzz that follows all of their releases, and Big Special are one of those bands.

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After the cult success of the band’s 2024 debut album, ‘POSTINDUSTRIAL HOMETOWN BLUES’, Big Special have wasted no time in following up with their next offering.

Maintaining their signature spoken word style, whilst also flirting with a more progressive direction, ‘National Average’ has been received well, with Clunk magazine awarding it a five star review. 

FULL TRACKLIST:

1. THE MESS.

2. GOD SAVE THE PONY.

3. HUG A BASTARD.

4. SHOP MUSIC.

5. PIGS PUDDIN.

6. PROFESSIONALS.

7. GET BACK SAFE.

8. YESBOSS.

9. DOMESTIC BLISS.

10. JUDAS SONG.

11. THE BEAST.

12. I ONCE HAD A KESTREL.

13. THIN HORSES.

Speaking to Rolling Stone, the band stated, “It’s about coming face to face with yourself, learning who you are when everything changes,” when talking about the themes of self-reflection in the song ‘Hug A Bastard’.

To many Big Special fans, the new record came as somewhat of a surprise, as it was released only a week after its announcement. Nevertheless, the band were able to stir up a fair amount of anticipation for its release.

The release was soon followed up by the announcement of a European tour, spanning the entire month of October, with a subsequent UK and Ireland tour early next year. Another Birmingham based duo, GANS, will be joining them on both the EU and UK tour dates. 

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‘National Average’ has also seen support from BBC 6 Music and the band sat in with Steve Lamacq for a live session at the infamous Maida Vale Studios. The session is available to listen to here.

The new record is available on vinyl, CD and cassette, and is available for purchase here. Tickets are also on sale for all of the band’s upcoming tour dates, here.