Coolmixes

In a region oversaturated with cowboy hats, gospel churches, and more twang than an old Johnny Cash record, comes The Big Tease, the blacksheep rock ‘n’ roll heavyweights, that if asked, are much more interested in the farmer’s daughter than the farm. Although they call the valley of eastern Tennessee home, these Knoxville boys sound more like they’ve been touring with the likes of Maroon 5, Jimmy Eat World, or The Killers, rather than with Rascal Flatts or Merle Haggard. Hailing from Knoxville, The Big Tease is a charming group of young, post-punk Southern hipsters looking to share their irresistible blend of rock, pop and funk. Supporting their critically acclaimed debut album, Beautiful Addiction, The Big Tease has been consistently touring, performing to packed clubs everywhere they go. This versatile foursome has become the soundtrack to college parties, playing at major universities throughout the south. Blending their high octane, powerpop rock with their! rousing stage presence, The Big Tease’s live shows keep each packed crowd electrified until closing time. “We’re the type of rock band that will pick up your daughter on time, meet the parents, and then take her out and let her rock,” Bill Dabbs, the band’s resident keyboard player laughs. “Oh, and we’d be sure to get her home on time…or maybe just a few minutes late.” Their style of sexy and infectious modern rock often reminisces of the Rivers Cuomo (of Weezer) approach to writing. It’s much harder to not only combine complex rhythms, unique melodies, and deep lyrical themes but to then transform them into straight-ahead, rock ‘n’ roll pop suited for the mainstream listener. The Big Tease, however, has done it with their first full-length release, Beautiful Addiction, which exudes enough pop and charm for radio, but rocks way too hard to be classified with the formulaic pop of today’s mainstream music scene. From track to track, the album bops and sways like a sparring prize fighter while still yielding enough power and punch to go ten rounds before its final knockout, a victoriously endearing piano ballad titled “Rescue Me.” Contrary to their suggestive name, The Big Tease has defined themselves not only by the power and passion of their latest album, but also with their raucous and wild, but still undeniably “well-mannered” live performances. The clean shaven foursome takes the stage wearing the kind of smile that says “I’ve got a secret, and it’s gonna blow your mind.” Donning the intellectual swag reminiscent of New York City’s lower east side, The Big Tease roll through their set with an unbridled fury that begs the question “has rock ever been this fun?” One thing’s for sure. Once you’re addicted to the band’s energy, talent and versatility, you’ll be begging to be teased again.

11.99