Cincinnati-based pop punk outfit Big Smile just dropped their latest single, “Oscillate.” The track explores anxiety and routine, delving deep into important issues we all face.
I had the chance to speak with frontman Scooter about what the track means to him, what it was like to approach such important topics, and what’s next for Big Smile.
Can you introduce yourselves to our readers, and tell us your role in the band?
“I’m Scooter, I sing and write lyrics for the band.”
“Oscillate” is about routine, and the anxiety that comes from breaking it. What inspired you to tackle this topic?
“Mostly my own experiences with the subject. I wanted to write the song from an honest place as well as expose that side of ourselves to our listeners that can relate.”
Can you tell us a little about what the song and the themes within it mean to you personally?
“I came from a pretty isolated place, so a lot of days I spent a lot of time in cars being anxious about getting where I was going and getting there safely. I think that’s a good analogy for life and the milestones we think we need to reach. It’s so easy to get caught up in the fear of failing or falling short, that we’d rather act like we aren’t even trying rather than have our peers see us failing. Those are a few things that I had to go through myself that ultimately inspired ‘Oscillate.'”
It sounds like “Oscillate” comes from a very personal place with the band. Do you think it’s important that musicians approach these topics?
“Yes, I do think it’s important. A lot of musicians are looked up to and have a lot of influence. Tackling these issues out loud would help inspire those that look up to them to tackle their potential issues as well.”
Routine, stability, and progression are super important things for musicians to face. How did it feel to write a song tackling these ideas?
“It feels good to write and release music that we feel someone could connect to. Anything we put out that can change a perspective, start a conversation, or even just let anyone know there’s someone else out there that understands where they are in life; it feels amazing to put out music like that.”
What does “Oscillate” mean for the next chapter of Big Smile’s music?
“As far as the next chapter of Big Smile goes, ‘Oscillate’ I think sets the bar for the future. It’s one of the best songs we’ve written together and with the music video for this song set to release soon, it’s a perfect way to close this chapter of the band.”
If listeners could take away one thing after listening to “Oscillate,” what would you want it to be?
“If there’s one thing they could take away from listening to this song it’s this: You are not your anxieties, the rut you’re in does not define you.”
Is there anything in Big Smile’s future that we should be on the lookout for?
“Yes! We are touring in January! Check out our tour dates on our social media and come out to a show! We also have new music brewing for early summer 2020. Looking to be our best stuff yet.”
You can follow Big Smile at the socials listed below:
Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, Spotify
You can stream “Oscillate” here:
