Early Riser - Big Life (2024) Hi-Res

Brooklyn quartet Early Riser release their third album Big Life today, which follows their delightful 2021 LP Vocations. The band sounds more confident than ever, both in songwriting and execution. The ten tracks are energetic and powerful, thanks to producer John Agnello (Sonic Youth, The Hold Steady, Waxahatchee), though it’s easy to imagine these songs working beautifully in a stripped-down, acoustic format too.

What sets Big Life apart is the communal spirit that has become one of Early Riser’s trademarks. You can’t help but sing along to standout track Strays, with its heartwarming chorus: “We’re all a bunch of strays // Just looking for our home // We’re all a bunch of strays // But now we’re finally home.” Uplifting yet often tinged with bittersweet emotion, the album maintains a careful balance.

Drawing comparisons to indie punk bands like Martha, Early Riser have an unique edge in their sound by incorporating cello. With Kiri Oliver (vocals/guitar), Heidi Vanderlee (cello/vocals), Nicole Nussbaum (bass/vocals), and Mikey Erg (drums/vocals) at the helm, Big Life is a superb collection of songs that would shine on any live stage — I would love to see this band on a bill with Bad Moves!