by Kris Handel (@khandel84)
Big Ugly, the third full length from North Carolina based indie-folk group Fust, finds the band mixing choogling and grinding southern rock with a sensitivity and gratefulness for all of life’s experiences. Over the past few years, Fust have crafted releases that revel in life’s simple things. Relationships, work, and everyday roadblocks are presented with a warm and open-hearted approach. Fust lead Aaron Dowdy’s straight-forward and welcoming songwriting highlights what’s needed to make it through. With Big Ugly, Fust examine common occurrences with an inescapable sense of wonder and excitement that’s both exhilarating and full of charm.
“Gateleg” has a rough-hewn style with a bar-hewn attitude highlighting its weary and work-hardened subjects with an honest embrace. Here Fust really make a connection with those hard-working and hard-drinking populace common in ‘Heartland’ and Southern folklore with punchy piano and pedal steel accompaniment via Frank Meadows and John James Tourviller, respectively. “Mountain Language” is a swaggering anthem full of reverence to Southern life and the importance of community as Dowdy’s voice is full of twanging pride and acceptance. The song presents the importance of finding comfort in being true to your heart and unwavering commitment to loved ones and spirits no matter the circumstances.
“Sister” is one of the slower ballad-like songs on the record that show off Fust’s ability to switch gears as Tournville’s mournful pedal steel lines are met with whistling and flowing violign of Libby Rodenbough. Dowdy’s resigned vocals match the swaying instrumentation that slowly drifts, bends and creaks mournfully with the tale of struggling people facing hardships and personal struggles. On “What’s His Name,” Dowdy’s aching vocals swoop alongside guest vocalist Merce Lemon, as Rodenbough’s violin and Meadows piano slowly twinkle. “What’s His Name” finds Fust mining heartache and growth with a tender approach. The band shines with grace and beauty despite the sense of longing and opportunities that cruelly slip out of reach.
Fust’s constant growth has been astonishing to witness. With Big Ugly, they have come close to meshing their vintage twang with a sensibility and emotional expression to new heights. Dowdy and associates show their willingness to embrace the ugliness of life yet turn those moments into some sort of exhalatory appreciation. Fust have crafted a record that is full of acceptance and joy that is all encompassing. With Big Ugly, the band has cemented themselves as champions of celebrating the overlooked. These songs carry an honesty and deep appreciation of all things ordinary on the surface and their complex beauty underneath.