On the surface, their name and the title of their second album suggest really big really clever don’t take themselves too seriously. While ‘…huh’ prolongs that presentation. Nevertheless, the Brighton quartet’s sophomore release thrives with fuzz-laden riffs and pure melodic hooks, underpinned by a raw and emotive narrative. Its 12 tracks whizz through with an abundance of energy, allowing tracks such as ‘floss is boss‘ and ‘pitful’ to surge through with power chords aplenty. ‘it doesn’t work’ rumbles thanks to the rhythmic pairing of bassist Chris Childs and drummer Sam Perkins.
Meanwhile, ‘the middle’ is a mid-album joy. Reminiscent of early Weezer, Jared Tomkins’ sincere words soar as Jordan Lilford brings the “ooh ooh”s. ‘i was am idiot’ demonstrates rbrc‘s tendency to go off-kilter. Yet it is the use of big melodies and dizzying riffs on the likes of ‘i will’ and ‘no respect for knights’ where really big really clever really shine.
Beyond the hooks is a sincere and honest side. Whether that’s looking for each other, dealing with regrets, or struggling through the daily grind. As ‘…huh’ sees the light of day, vocalist/guitarist Jared Tomkins, broke down the record track-by-track.
back door
The song ‘back door’ is a raw, riff-driven heavy rock track that channels the chaos and confusion of a night gone wrong. Inspired by the real-life experience of someone who was spiked and left disoriented and vulnerable, the song explores themes of fear and resilience. The energy throughout is relentless and captures the feeling of losing control in an environment that should feel safe — and the fight to reclaim power and clarity. It’s a powerful reminder to look out for each other and stay aware in a world where danger can hide in plain sight.
floss is boss
The song ‘floss is boss’ explores the intense, turbulent emotions of someone whose love has spiralled into an all-consuming obsession. The song captures the paradox of love that is both passionate and possessive, teetering on the edge of self-destruction.
it doesn’t work
The song ‘it doesn’t work’ is about the day-to-day grind of anyone who struggles to get by with money and work.
the middle
‘the middle’ explores the emotional strain and evolving expectations that can often come from personal connections. It reflects on the painful realisation that, despite your best efforts, you may never be able to become the person you think want you to be. The song captures the internal conflict of losing yourself in the process and ultimately speaks to the journey of reclaiming your identity – learning to recognise, avoid, and move on from situations that demand you to be someone you’re not.
karma
really big really clever like to believe that bad things happen to bad people. This song is about someone you know who has been difficult, therefore will receive difficulties in life.
i will
Fantasising about hurting someone and wondering if that day will come.
dread
Taking a night out too far and having so much dread the following day.
pitiful
Do you know someone who wears a suit and tie and is always going on about their boring job as if it’s the most exciting thing in the world? Here’s a song for/about that guy.
i was an idiot
Realising you’re an idiot
no respect for knights
‘No Respect for Knights’ is a poignant exploration of a fractured bond between two people unravelling through time. What begins as a deep connection. slowly corrodes under the weight of unspoken grievances, lost trust, and mounting resentment.
back and forth
The last song on the album is a reminder to never look back on your life in regret. Everything bad that has ever happened to you has made you the stronger person you are today.
‘…huh’ by really big really clever is out now on Sugar-Free Records.
really big really clever will be touring the UK on the following dates.
August
30th The Blue Note, Jersey
September
6th The Hope & Ruin, Brighton
10th Sneaky Pete’s, Edinburgh
11th Little Buildings, Newcastle
12th Hyde Park Book Club, Leeds
13th Hallamshire Hotel, Sheffield
14th Sebright Arms, London
16th Clwb Ifor Bach. Cardiff
17th The Louisiana, Bristol
20th The Flapper, Birmingham
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