Big Country is a Scottish post-punk band formed in 1981. The ‘classic’ era from 1981 to 2000 consisted of Bruce Watson on guitar, Stuart Adamson on vocals and guitar, Tony Butler on bass, and Mark Brzeziki on drums. They had their own Celtic tinged sound due to Adamson recreating the sounds and tones of bagpipes in his guitar playing style. Also, the band concentrated on playing melodies rather than just chord progressions which just added to the uniqueness of their sound. In 2001 Stuart Adamson, who had struggles with alcohol, committed suicide. I actually remember crying when I found out because by all accounts he was a nice guy and his guitar playing was stellar. They made music up until his death so they are not a strictly 80”s band, but they were big in that decade and made their best albums then. Members of the band are still touring as Big Country, so you may be able to catch them live.

I don’t think I have seen any younger people mention Big Country online when they talk about loving 80s post-punk bands which is a shame. My aim is to change that!!!!! Below are my favourite 80’s songs by Big Country. By the way, Kate Bush lends her vocals to the song The Seer so you are not imagining it. Enjoy!!!

Fields Of Fire (1983)

Look Away (1986)

The Seer (1986)

In A Big Country (1983)

Where The Rose Is Sown (1984)

Remembrance Day (1986)

Harvest Home (1983)