A cheery, warm, and summery record, Brig Aurora’s self titled EP sees the group’s cohesive vision finally realised. Combining the electric verve and scintillating passion of classic rock with a much more supple and airy folk tunes, the resultant record feels like two styles that should be jarring together, but somehow find some semblance of cohesiveness. Through heavy usage of natural instrumentation and raw arrangements, Brig Aurora still manage to weave together larger than life soundscapes that are based in harmonization and eccentricities while maintaining something emotional and intimate.
From the onset of ‘In the Eye of the Storm’, you feel as though you’re being caressed into a light and by the numbers folk tune that’s carried by simple acoustic work and a reassuring and calming vocal performance. Without much warning, you’re suddenly thrown into something far more heavy and expressive with a barrage of classic rock instrumentation hurling down onto you. The electric guitar comes through in full force, completely shifting the songs vibe and your expectations for this record. Then there are tracks like Chugg’s dream, a serene and introspective instrumental driven piece that just uses vocals for harmonic vocalisation as an additional instrument. Here, it’s just beautiful, completely blissful.
Brig Aurora are entirely unique. I haven’t heard a single group with a similar sound whatsoever. And it’s not like they’re overly experimental or unbelievably confusing in their approach. They’re merely combining that which we already know, but adding their own unique spin and mixing to styles that are seemingly conflicted but in execution remarkably synergistic. Progressive rock, indie folk, and classic rock all find their way into each piece. The energy varies from pulsating to completely blissful and relaxing. Intriguing in its diversity and the sheer amazement you get from immersing yourself into the intricate and delectable instrumental arrangements, this self-titled record is well worth your time.