Self Released
Buy: Bandcamp
Scotland’s Big Cloud describes themselves as “fearlessly boring groove-drone & ambient pop.” Descriptions are meant to give you a good general idea of what to expect, and that description left me baffled… and curious. On “Christmas Presence,” Big Cloud has a slow groove that I might best describe as RIYL Low/Spain. In fact, this song sounds like something either of those bands would likely cover beautifully. The ringing guitar notes and strolling beat frame some clever, and at times, rather militantly-secular lyrics (which I would obviously be into): “I don’t care about cards or treeses / I refuse to think of Jesus / Your presence is the greatest gift that there is.” There are many instances of clever turns of phrase, most obviously those inspiring the title of the song: “I don’t need your Christmas present / I just need your Christmas presence / Your presence is the greatest gift that there is.” There is some downright sweetness in this song, which when not handled right can drive a song into a ditch of crass sentimentality. Big Cloud easily navigates the sweetness and keeps “Christmas Presence” on a heartfelt, genuine, and despite their best efforts, interesting path.
Bottom Line: Big Cloud has written a truly sweet Christmas song that is just a few degrees off-center to make it that much more interesting.
Christmas Underground 