Big Little Lions release their first concept album AMPM via Fallen Tree Records
On June 9th, Big Little Lions (Helen Austin & Paul Otten) released their first concept album (and seventh album) AMPM via Fallen Tree Records. The trans-continental folk-pop duo enlightens us from morning to night on the new album. Tackling anxiety and self-hate, the grind of daily life, the perils of parenting, and the value of community and forgiveness. The JUNO-winning collaborators once again charm with their intimate, clever, and relatable lyrics, paired with the melodic lilt of indie rock and pop.
The album opens with “Oh It’s You Again”, reflecting on the loathed face in the mirror. But this is Big Little Lions, so they hook us with the mantra “Today my world changes”, as their protagonist finds the confidence to forgive their own mistakes. It’s also the perfect chorus for the transformative musical journey we’re about to embark on with AMPM. The album also includes previously released singles “Worth The Time”, “Why Won’t My Brain Stop” and the recent track “Nearly Human” – (which features a fun video with Helen indulging us in some ice cream making), plus “Catnap” and “It’s 5 O’Clock Somewhere.”
Listen to AMPM below and learn more about Big Little Lions via our Five Questions With segment.
Care to introduce yourself to our readers?
We are Big Little Lions, a folk-pop, cross-border US/Canadian duo who met while writing music for TV and Film. Helen lives in BC, while Paul resides in Ohio. We went from just writing and recording from afar to touring multiple times a year in our 2, one-man band setup. Paul plays drums, keyboard, keyboard bass and sings all at the same time, while Helen plays acoustic guitar, a range of foot percussion, and also vocals. We love the challenge!
Tell us a bit about your most recent release.
Our recent release is our first concept album, called AMPM, and is a day in the life in a way that anyone can relate to and interpret. It covers a lot of mental health issues that can creep in during the day, along with upbeat songs about letting everything go.
Where do you tend to pull inspiration from when writing?
We like to start with a title first but then the inspiration can come from our lives, a book we’ve read, or the people around us. We try not to overthink too much while attending to details. It’s a balancing act for sure.
Do you have any upcoming shows you’d like to tell us about?
We are going to be in BC in July/August
All details are on our website and FB
Thursday, July 27, 2023 – Nanoose Bay, BC – Tin Roof Music Bar – TICKETS
Friday, July 28, 2023 – Campbell River, BC – Spirit Square*
Saturday, July 29, 2023 – Victoria, BC – East Plaza*
Sunday, July 30, 2023 – Cumberland, BC – House Concert – SOLD OUT
Tuesday, Aug 1, 2023 – Victoria, BC – Cameron Bandshell*
Wednesday, Aug 2, 2023 – Brentwood, BC – Music in the Park*
Thursday, Aug 3, 2023 – Bowen Island, BC – Tir-Na-Nog Theatre – TICKETS
Friday, Aug 4, 2023 – Penticton, BC – Dream Cafe – TICKETS
Saturday, Aug 5, 2023 – West Vancouver, BC – Harmony Arts Festival* – INFO
*Free Event
What’s your goal for 2023?
To enjoy playing our new album out and to keep writing and recording together and hope we get lots of placements!
Connect with Big Little Lions:
Website
Bandcamp
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram