The Test Drive: Big Tide – Sync or Swim

Ben Thomas is a thinking man’s songwriter. With music history at his side and originality at the center, creativity comes full circle with his project, Big Tide, and his new album titled ‘Sync or Swim’. Each track is a feel-good summer outing in its own right as stand-alone tracks, but, they also come together as a full musical score. I really can’t tell what could be singles on this album because each song is worthy of that title. With solid songwriting and beautiful hooks, ‘Sync or Swim’ is the best of #Indie.

As of May 10, A Turntable Friend Records has released the ‘Sync Or Swim’ album with worldwide distribution through London’s SRD (Southern Record Distributors). It is available digitally everywhere, including iTunes, Bandcamp and Spotify, and physically as a limited 10-track CD in gatefold, and limited 10-track vinyl in gatefold (with download code).

About Big Tide
Founded by Liverpool native Ben Thomas in 2017, Big Tide was born out of Thomas’ disillusionment with the electronic music scene. His previous output as French House producer L’Étranger spanned for six years. Under this moniker, he caught the attention of tastemaker publications Clash, Nest HQ, Indie Shuffle, Earmilk, HBF, Purple Sneakers, French Shuffle, Amazing Radio and Bella Union Simon Raymonde, amongst others.

The impetus to form this new project came in 2013 while touring with Spectrals as lead guitarist. A stay in Paris was the final catalyst for a change in musical direction when Ben picked up his 12 string and the chiming sound of Big Tide was born.

Whilst the majority of instruments are performed by Ben Thomas, the album also features guest appearances by former members of Spectrals, Hookworms, Cowtown and Deadwall, who contribute drums, organ, and saxophone.

Thomas sings in his signature northern vocal style whilst shimmering 12-string guitars form the cornerstone of the Big Tide sound. Coupled with Ben’s idiosyncratic lyrics and unique delivery, this music presents a great find from Northern England.

Taking influence from bands like Big Star and Teenage Fanclub, Big Tide’s music blends elements from ‘60s power pop like The Byrds and ‘70s folk-rock espoused by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young to create music that is original while somehow feeling familiar.

LINKS:
https://www.bigti.de
https://bigtideband.bandcamp.com
https://itunes.apple.com/gb/artist/big-tide/1276533126
https://open.spotify.com/artist/7j4kr0FrEajpRkjG8VVlms