Melbourne outfit Big Scary are without a doubt one of Australia’s most talented and diverse bands. The two-piece act, consisting of Tom Iansek and Jo Syme, recently picked up a nomination for the J Award (Triple J’s album of the year) for their debut record Vacation. And boy do they deserve it.

The album kicks off with a slice of pop gold in the form of “Gladiator”. The boy/girl chorus works like a charm and is rounded out by Syme putting in a killer showing on drums. The video for the track is hilarious and sees Iansek acting out his rock star fantasies around Melbourne. The low budget video is extremely well done and you can check it out below:

Second track “Leaving Home” is stunning in its delivery and invokes memories of Jeff Buckley's pained but beautiful vocals. The spine tingling nature of Iansek's voice bears such a resemblance in places that one can’t help but feel the vocal booth was inhabited by Buckley's spirit when this track was laid down.

Triple J favourite “Mix Tape” pops up early on the record and is instantly recognisable with its catchy piano line. The quiet-loud formula works to great effect on this track as we find Iansek almost whispering the verses before exploding into triumphant choruses. The animated video is well worth a look below:

“Purple” sees the band switch things up and go blues-y for the true rock moment on the album. As the track takes hold one can quickly gauge why Big Scary are often compared to The White Stripes. "Purple" comes complete with blues laden guitar and chiming symbols, the likes of which would make Jack and Meg proud. A stomping track.

As the second half of the album slows down the pace, sombre highlights emerge in “Got It, Lost It” and “Falling Away”. The latter of which places Iansek’s piano skills at the forefront and slowly builds to an epic climax as he croons “Baby we’re falling, falling away...”

Vacation is one of the outstanding Australian albums of 2011 (hasn't this been an epic year for Oz music?) with its diverse mix of rock, blues and balladry. The diversity doesn't spoil the flow of the record though as it quickly turns into one vacation that won't be easily forgotten. Let Big Scary’s sounds transport you to a faraway place.

Review Score: 8/10