Artist Big Science

Like fellow new-wave-derived, Peter Hook-inspired bands Interpol and The Killers, Chicago foursome Big Science mixes danceable bass lines, propulsive percussion, and soaring, echoing choruses. With the addition of shimmering guitars reminiscent of U2's The Edge, Big Science occasionally comes off as overly derivative—especially on songs like “Basement Lights," which also treads familiar territory with its dance-party narrative and cocaine references. But the band's debut EP, The Coast Of Nowhere, mostly steers clear of forced anthems by taking its time on considerably moodier and more sonically intricate songs.

Updated 08/17/2010