SINGLE REVIEW: Ugly Jumper – little man/BIG POND

Deep within the UK grassroots, there truly is a glorious amount of emo-inspired bands that could put the collection of countries back on the emo map. Ugly Jumper is one such band, with their inspired, infectiously catchy take on emo tropes that perfectly sits between the pure polished catchiness of indie rock, and the unconventional whimsy of midwest emo. With a live set-up that ensures wild concerts, and already something of a passionate cult following, it is easy to imagine Ugly Jumper reaching higher and higher heights with each release, including their brand new third single, ‘little man/BIG POND‘.

With its jangly guitar riffs, sparse instrumental approach, and brilliantly over-the-top vocal delivery, ‘little man/BIG POND‘ continues the band’s streak of releasing whimsical, melancholic emo anthems. Stripped back verses surge into driving, head-banger choruses, buoyed by a consistent, understated yet impactful rhythm section; drummer Loz Riley has a crucial understanding of when to hold back and let simplicity work to the track’s favour, and when to toss in a complex fill to energise a passage.

Vocalist KC Jade is a wonderful figure to behold once more. Her vocals alternate between hushed subtlety and bold, belted passages, capturing perfectly her disdain for men that think a little too much of themselves, and end up allowing their ego to ruin themselves. Her gentle use of discordance lends a crackling sense of rawness and playfulness to the track, transforming it from a simple but catchy emo track into a song that is brimming with character and style.

In a musical landscape saturated with the morose and melodramatic, Ugly Jumper represents a welcome reminder that music can retain a sense of important catharsis whilst being playful and fun. The wit and humour at the foundation of this band does not detract from their creativity and talent, and what is born from this is a catchy reminder to not let your ego become too excessive; there’s always a bigger fish, after all.

For Fans Of: Paramore, NewDad, Crawlers, Weezer, Chappell Roan

Follow the band on social media below:

Instagram // Spotify