Sick/Sea

Band: Sick/Sea
Tips:
1. Keep track of your contacts.
It's something we wish we had been doing from the beginning because you are going to meet SO many people on tour. After a while, it's hard to remember where you met this or that person and it's a potential friendship or future show that's lost. Make a list.
2. Be humble and socialize.
It'll make yours and everyone else's experience with your band richer and more enjoyable. Not many people like talking to douche bags.
3. Save your money.
Most bands don't have rich parents so if you're like the rest of us, you need to start saving any money your band makes from the beginning if you ever want to record, get shirts made, or tour.
4. Keep open communication within the band.
It's important to verbalize when something is bothering you, especially on the road because if you bottle up your emotions, you're gonna explode and make a bad experience for everyone else. You've got to talk things out and make compromises.
5. All work, no play makes Jack a dull boy.
Work VERY hard but also have a lot of fun because not many people get to tour! - DIGITAL TOUR BUS

Texas desert dwelling trio Sick/Sea crawl from the sand from whence they came, to deliver their latest offering, Moral Compass.

Opening track Parasite showcases the band’s trademark ability to seamlessly cross genres in an effortless and natural manor. Jazzy bass riffs are accompanied by stabbing electric indie guitars and the beautiful and strong voice of lead singer Audrey Scott. The only criticism here being that she sounds eerily similar to Hayley Williams.

Robot is a chip of delightful indie pop which fills you with smiles and sunshine, so much so that they have set their very first video against it, which sees them roam around a quaint kooky house playing guitars – it’s so indie you could die.

Changing pace to a slower stop/start number, Master Splinter shows off a slightly heavier side to the band. Yes we did say slower and heavier. Again the band shows another aspect of their multi-faceted talents, even if all the wailing does become a bit of a bore.

Sticking with the nautical theme, Mermaid is a gorgeous little poppy number lead by the vocal talent of Audrey Scott, who has come into her own by this point of the EP as an excellent vocalist and lyricist.

Final track, Blinked slows things down in a jazzy/soul fashion on some Corrine Bailey-Rae hype. This song is a siren sure to lure you into a state of relaxation and ultimately depression when you realise it’s the end of the EP. Its ok, you can just play it again!

Sick/Sea are an awesomely talented band but their sound does feel a little over complicated at times. If they were to go down a folk direction they would be successful and if they travelled the pop-punk route they would be equally so. The fact is that they clearly enjoy playing the music they play which draws on various influences. Despite their whoring of genres, they are not the most refreshing band, however this is only their second EP. When they get back from their 2 month long East Coast tour we’re sure they might find time for an album.

6/10

For Fans of: Paramore, First Aid Kit, John K Samson

Stand Out Track: Mermaid

Written By: Sam Brown-John - Bring the Noise

SICK/SEA JUST CAN’T WAIT TO GET ON THE ROAD AGAIN
By Tim Anderl
Photo: [l to r]: Miguel Morales, Audrey and Cameron Scott; photo credit: Christie Bentley Photography
McAllen, Texas’ Sick/Sea last visited Dayton in September 2012, just prior to the October release of Moral Compass, their first effort for Autumn + Colour Records. Dedicating themselves to a vigorous touring schedule, and with a fresh release under their belts, the band spent the final months of 2012 making waves with their multi-genre blending sound, and is busy preparing for and anticipating their first winter tour.
The band’s sound, which puts them in league with contemporaries like Copeland, Eisley and Dear and the Headlights, combines moments of indie rock, jazz and hardcore, creating a distinct and succinctly mature sound. Their songs are songs of life and love, not destruction or despair, and the reverb-laden opuses set the tone for dynamic drumming and jazz-like bass riffs.

Dayton City Paper caught up with vocalist Audrey Scott to discuss Moral Compass, being in a band with her brother (Cameron Scott), touring and what they like about Dayton.

Moral Compass was your first for Autumn + Color; how did you decide they were the right label for Sick/Sea?

We’re still a pretty young band and to get approached by a label was very exciting. We were at a point where we were ready to record our next EP, but were being held back by financing issues. We didn’t have the money to do it and we were going to wait a year, keep playing shows and save up the money to record. Then they came at us and they were really, really awesome guys. They’re a growing label, so we thought the arrangement of us helping them and them helping us was the natural choice. -Audrey Scott

Is there a theme within Moral Compass that ties the record together?

Yes. It is a display of my life within a tour year span of time. It touches on everything I went through, but the theme is really discovering myself and trying to figure out what I want in life. It is also me trying to figure out how not to control things too much, but letting my moral compass guide me rather than some self-imposed rulebook that I set for myself a long time ago. -AS

Is there a degree of comfort in doing the band with your brother or have you ever had sibling rivalry problems?

No, we have this bizarre ability to get along. We had the same friends, we spent a lot of time together and we learned how to work through our issues. On the road sometimes we annoy each other every now and then. Like on our first night of tour he said, “Audrey, can I talk to you outside?” I was like, “Oh great.” We argued, but agreed I’ll work on this, you work on that and we felt better by the end. We know how to compromise and not to be selfish. It was a good lesson to learn early on, even for life in general. -AS

Coming from a place like Texas, where winters aren’t that bad, are you nervous about doing a winter tour in the northern states?

Yes. Our families are all worried for us, too. We are already a pretty careful band. We drive slow with the trailer and we have a sleeping routine to ensure that the driver is always well-rested. One of the guys we’re bringing with us this tour has travelled with a band through snowstorms, and he has a lot of knowledge and experience. He’s been packing flares and stuff like that. So we feel pretty prepared, although I’m sure nothing can totally prepare us for it. -AS

Have you had any harrowing experiences on the road?

Um … nothing too crazy. We’ve had some nights where we needed a place to stay and some drunk people invited us to stay with them … the night typically goes downhill from there. But nothing really life threatening. We’ve been really lucky in that sense. -AS

It is fortunate for us that Dayton has made your routing over a larger Ohio city. And you’ve been here before. What was your previous experience like here?

I remember that Dayton is one of the most beautiful areas I’ve been to. I’m from deep south Texas where it is very hot and humid most of the year. There’s not a big art scene. There’s not a lot going on. It is growing, but it’s not Austin. I always keep my radar on for cities that would be nice to move to and I remember Dayton was high on that list. When I was little, I always wanted a forest in my yard and places to explore and Dayton has beautiful scenery. And everyone we met there was really nice. The guys we stayed with loved Dayton and they were telling us about all the great music that has come from the area. We had no idea. It seems like such a small, quaint city. -AS - Dayton City Paper

Having spent the last couple of weeks fretting over the damage that Hurricane Isaac threatened to bring in its wake to the Gulf Coast, the idea of spending the evening in the midst of Sick/Sea may create trepidation for even the most astute fans of indie rock. However, the McAllen, Texas, duo that carries the panic inducing moniker, is making splendid waves that are sure to carry listeners who are fans of multi-genre blending in much more pleasant directions. The duo, which consists of siblings Audrey and Cameron Scott, combine moments of indie rock, jazz, and hardcore creating a distinct and succinctly mature sound – one which puts them in league with contemporaries like Copeland, Eisley and Dear and the Headlights.

As of late their music has carried them past the borders of the small town in the country’s largest states capturing the attention of Autumn+Colour Records who will release the bands Moral Compass on October 16 along the way. Ghettoblaster caught up with Audrey while the band were in the midst of their current tour to discuss some of her favorite things about her home town. Here’s what she told us about art walking and authentic Mexican food…

What’s your town’s nickname?
The Rio Grande Valley. It combines all the surrounding cities.

What’s your nickname for your town?
We just call it The Valley.

Why do you live there?
Because I’ve got it too good! My brother and I live in a nice trailer our dad owns so we just pay the lot rent. It’s super cheap, plus I have an awesome boss who supports my musical aspirations. I get to come home and manage the coffee shop between tours.

Did you grow up there? If not, what brought you there?
Yup grew up there, born and raised, but also left as quickly as possible. I basically lived out of the Valley for 5 years after high school.

What’s the weirdest thing that has ever happened to you there?
That’s like asking what the weirdest thing that’s ever happened to me!

What is your favorite local attraction (monument, park, etc)?
South Padre Island is the best thing we’ve got. It’s an hour away and seeing as how the Valley is 4 hours South of civilization, being at the beach feels like you’re not trapped.

What is your favorite local event or festival?
We have an Art Walk every Friday for most of the year downtown. There’s also a lot of live music at them and it’s a nice change of pace.

What is the best time of year to be there?
We get Winter Texans every year in the Valley who are basically retired people from the North who live in the Valley during the Winter because it is guaranteed to not snow. When I get old, I’m going to be a Winter Texan! We generally have very nice Winters that are short and not too too cold.

Who is your favorite local celebrity?
Charlie Vela! He records most of the local bands and is a great guy. [we don't really have any celebrities]

Where is the best place to drink and what’s their specialty or happy hour?
Roosevelt’s on 7 has a bunch of beers on tap and the bartenders know their stuff. The whole place has a very cool feel if you’re looking for a place to hang out. Honestly, I don’t go out to drink much. If I’m gonna have a couple of beers, it’s at home with a few friends.

Who has the best jukebox (and what’s in it)?
Haha, I honestly don’t know. There was an Applebees with a good jukebox once.

Do you play music there? If so, where is your favorite place to play?
No, we haven’t played at Applebees yet. Our favorite place to play is the Cine el Rey. It’s an old theater that has now housed some of our most memorable shows.

Does where you live influence your music?
Every experience influences our music in some way but I don’t think our music sounds like anything that’s coming out of the Valley. We’re so close to the border of Mexico that Tejano and Norteño are the prevalent genres. Our pool of Indie, Rock, and Metal music is a small one but a tight-knit one. If a musician decides to write from our pool, they automatically have way more room to be original and generally have way more support than if they were trying to make music in a bigger city.

What is your favorite place to see live music and what was your favorite show there?
The Cine el Rey. My favorite show there was Miniature Tigers.

What is your favorite local band?
Dignan

What is your favorite diner or restaurant and what is their best dish?
Well if you want authentic Mexican food, go to any corner but I’ve personally become a little burnt out on the stuff. I love going to Hop Tung for their Bun Vermicelli bowl.

What is your favorite record store and what was your best find there?
Fallback Records because not only are they awesome, but they’re pretty much the only record store we have. And I don’t collect vinyl but Orlie the owner has special-ordered some records for me that I got for a friend.

What is your favorite local publication (alternative weekly, zine, website or blog)?
Ouch! My Ego is a cool zine that also throws awesome events.

What is your favorite local shop?
Jitterz Coffee Bar not just because I work there but because they really do serve amazing high quality, home-roasted coffee.

If you could live anywhere else, where would that be?
I would love to live in Austin, TX. But if out of the states, I’d want to try living in Japan for a bit. - GhettoBlaster

Sick/Sea hail from McAllen, TX, where the duo, formed of Audrey and Cameron Scott, have fostered the group’s moody indie-pop sound. They'll release a debut, Moral Compass, on October 16 via Autumn + Colour Records, and it's a dulcet collection of songs that feel related to groups like Eisley or Gold Motel. “Robot” is a swooping indie rock number that aptly showcases Audrey’s emotive croon. - RCRDLBL

Below you can watch Sick/Sea's new music video for "Robot." The song can also be downloaded for free at RCRD LBL.

Sick/Sea will be playing the Toro Booking Showcase during CMJ on October 20 at Lit Lounge in NYC (with Victor Villarreal of Cap’n Jazz, Joan of Arc, Owls)
Address: 93 2nd Ave # A New York, NY 10003. 8pm - AltPress

The Joey Voodoo Music Video of the Week is “Robot” by Sick/Sea. Moral Compass EP coming October 16th! - Joey Voodoo

Hailing from a small Texas town with a dynamic music scene, on-the-verge indie outfit Sick/Sea are poised to take on the masses with heart and uniquity. Deriving influences from the sounds of their youth — jazz, rock, indie — and coloring them with waves of ambiance and hints of hardcore, the band have molded their own version of indie rock that's both honest and refreshing. Take "Parasite," for instance, which they're premiering with us today. Between bursts of percussion, heavy-hearted guitar riffs, and vocalist Audrey Scott's impassioned vocals, it's a great representation of the equally impressive tracks coming off their forthcoming new EP, Moral Compass, due out October 16 via Autumn + Colour Records. Spin the track's exclusive premiere, and then go behind-the-scenes both track and EP with Audrey Scott in our PV Q&A.

PureVolume: Can you share the story behind "Parasite?"
Audrey Scott: I was very mad when I wrote it [laughs]. I've always been proud of the men I've dated but with this guy, I was ashamed. He crawled back to his abusive ex after me, only because he wasn't strong enough to be alone for a while. Interestingly, I'm not calling him a parasite; I'm calling her a parasite. "Go on now, run home to your parasite love. Go on now, she wants your blood."
PV: Your new music video for “Robot” has this awesome, home-movie appeal to it. Where did you film it, and did you intend on capturing that sort of a vibe when you set out to put visuals to the song?
AS: Thank you! It was filmed at one of our favorite venues called the Vertical Violet in Wichita, KS. It's actually a house owned by one of the coolest and warmest families we've met. If you look at any wall, you can easily play "I Spy," and if you've read any of the Harry Potter books I'd compare it to the Weasley's home.

We've always wanted our first music video to introduce us to the world in an honest way. The idea really just fell into our laps as we were relaxing in the garden at the Vertical Violet. Looking around, it became important for us to showcase that wonderful house and family to people who didn't have the privilege of visiting it. As we started filming, we realized that we were capturing ourselves in a very natural way because just being there is comforting! In the end, we were able to achieve our goals because of a perfect combination of filming method and environment.
PV: Your new EP, Moral Compass, is dropping so soon! How have the tracks on this EP grown and taken shape since the early stages of their making?
AS: They have grown an incredible amount! This was definitely our most collaborative effort. All of the songs started out as simple acoustic songs, but after rearranging and rearranging for months, then going through our producer in the studio, they became what they are now. Normally, I write the songs and everyone adds their parts, but this time we molded everything congruently until the songs had the dynamics and soul they now have.
PV: What is your favorite aspect about this EP? Or what element do you think fans will relate to the most while listening?
AS: I like that we've strayed a bit from the pop tone of our sound and have [shifted] more towards the heavier and intense feel. I think our fans will appreciate that aspect but also still relate to the lyrics. I think that my lyrics are always relatable because they're all personal experiences. In Moral Compass, they deal with being lonely, hurt, and indecisive.
PV: Any exciting plans for after you drop the EP?
AS: We'll kick off the EP release by playing the CMJ festival in NYC and continuing on a month-long tour of the Midwest and East Coast with The Skies Revolt from Detroit. We're also having a vinyl release a month after the initial release. All exciting stuff! - PureVolume

Sick/Sea have released a new video for "Robot," and with its low-key vibe and DIY mentality, it feels more like watching a home video than a music video — and that's a very good thing. Follow the band through kitchens and stairways, backyards and back decks, driveways and swing sets, while they jam out this incredibly infectious coming-of-age tune. Check it out and head to RCRD LBL to grab yourself a free download of the track. You can also grab the band's new EP, Moral Compass, when it drops October 16 via Autumn + Colour Records. - PureVolume

Learning to let go of the past can be a difficult lesson. I have a hard time forgetting Audrey Scott used to be an even quirkier version of herself as a teen singing songs under the band name Arrgh!Drey. Even then, though, everyone could tell Audrey and her brother Cameron (who plays drums) would become more than just a coffeehouse singer/songwriter duo.
The two are still making music together, but for a few years now it’s been as Sick/Sea. Recently, they scored a record deal with Autumn + Color. Their first EP (as a signed band) Moral Compass will be available Tuesday, Oct. 16.
The EP kicks off with the darkest song on the album. “Parasite” has the hardest rock sound of all the songs, though it doesn’t jump out of the indie rock spectrum.
Each of the five tracks show off Audrey’s vocals more than anything, and especially so on “Master Splinter.” She uses her voice as an instrument and it’s very reminiscent of Jenny Lewis.
The entire EP definitely falls into the indie rock genre, but flirts a bit with jazz and blues, especially in the last track “Blinked,” which, if it were any slower, could be classified as chillwave.
All of the songs sound like retellings of fables or myths, such as “Mermaid,” in which Audrey sings of the loneliness of the seaman who encounter the sirens.
Producers of Moral Compass were heavy-handed with reverb, echos and polish, which helps steer Sick/Sea directly into a marketable arena, but it strips Audrey and Cameron of the quirkiness I love about them - but I can always find that in one of their live shows. - The Monitor

Sick/Sea’s “Robot” is a pleasant indie pop track on the familiar topic of growing up and life’s little lessons. I don’t usually engage in the lyrics of songs being a more musical listener but these are pretty spot on. My favorite: “I change my dreams like socks on my feet, but oh my feet have grown”, vocalist/guitarist Audrey Scott sings about one’s ever-evolving life directions only to follow with her resolution “now when I sleep, I do not fight, cause now I’ve learned to let my old self die”. Excellent stuff. ”Robot” is from the McAllen, Texas group’s debut album Moral Compass out on Autumn + Colour on October 16th. - Slap The Bass

In a world that seems to spin faster by the day, where social networking allows us to make friends with one another at a click of the mouse, we may be able to see what people have tagged or who they’ve ‘poked,’ but it can sometimes be difficult to really get to know someone and what they’re about. Feeling friendly, cutting to the chase, and learning something about current musical artists who represent the best of what they do, Buzzine has set a table and would like to introduce you to your Speed Date:

What is your name and where are you from?

Audrey Scott from Sick/Sea and I’m from McAllen, TX.

Where are you right now?

McAllen, TX in my trailer on my futon.

Hey, do you have a cam on your phone, can we have a pic to see what you’re up to?

Sure...

If our moms were setting us up on a blind date, what 3 things would your mom tell my mom about you?

1. That I dropped out of College to tour with my band [bittersweet for her]
2. That I can make rosettas in lattes [so artsy!]
3. And that I get it from her! [she‘ll get that joke, though it‘s a fact]

Why are you answering these questions (what are you promoting)?

We leave on an Eastish tour in one week! And our new EP called Moral Compass came out Oct.16th. [2012]

What 3 words best describe your musical style?

Indie, Heavy, Love.

What sentence best sums up your latest album?

It explores the darker side of relationships but also the lessons and hope that come out of them.

What are you most proud of in your professional life?

I hardly consider myself a professional but it’s definitely this band. We’ve accomplished our short term dreams with it and now we’re tackling the big ones! It’s taken sacrifice and hard work but we’ll have the later years of our lives to coast.

What other music (apart from your own) are you listening to right now?

Bombay Bicycle Club, First Aid Kit, Maps & Atlases, Amanda Bergman, Darwin Deez, Mother Mother, Colour Revolt, y mas!

Who is your musical hero?

Regina Spektor. She is absolute. At least was.

When are you the happiest: recording in the studio or playing live on stage?

Playing live on stage.

Why?

Although I love recording, I love human interaction more. There’s magic in those moments.

What has been your greatest ‘rock star’ moment so far?

I went to get my wisdom teeth removed and all the nurses thought I was a rockstar because my band tours. They wanted my autograph but I refused. [I’m bringing them signed CDs soon] But really, there’s nothing like being spoiled by your hometown fan base. They recognize us at random places and make us feel like we’re something special. We love them.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

We see ourselves with an amazingly loyal and larger fan base, touring the world, and getting to sleep in hotels instead of sleeping bags! We’d like to be involved in good things that can make a difference in this world and with the younger generations.

What is your motto?

Treat life like an adventure but keep your morals in check.

Anything more to add?

Come see us on this tour!! We like making friends and we’re pretty fun people so it’s a win-win!

Where online can fans find out more about you?

www.sickseamusic.com - Buzzine

McAllen, TX indie rock trio Sick/Sea offers listeners an inviting easy listening experience. Their 5-track EP, “Moral Compass” beautifully combines elements of indie, jazz and rock. Tracks like “Robot” and “Mermaid” have massive commercial appeal and leaves us wanting more. Sick/Sea have won me over. - Sinister Girlz

1. How did you get your band name?

The original idea was "Sick for the Sea" to capture that longing for adventure that we never want to lose, the kind children embody. Then a friend suggested we shorten it with a "slash" and boom! We had our band name.

2. How did this band get started?

It started with me [Audrey] writing a few acoustic/pop songs for fun and putting them up on a secret Myspace music page. My brother who was playing in metal bands, asked if he could add his flavor to the songs and we loved what came out! Soon after I showed the Myspace page to my friends, I was approached by a local promoter to play shows. We only had three originals when we played that show but thanks to that initial push, we are where we are now.

3. What bands are you influenced by?

Bands we've been listening to consistently for a long time are As Cities Burn, Eisley, Colour Revolt, Eisley, Regina Spektor, Daphne Loves Derby, Underoath, Copeland, Death Cab for Cutie, Manchester Orchestra, Maps & Atlases, and Relient K. Lately, my iPod has been rotating Darwin Deez and Ellie Goulding.

4. If you could tour with any bands, past or present, who would they be and why?

Dear and the Headlights and Manchester Orchestra because we love their music and think that their fans would also like our music.

5. Best food to eat on tour?

Anything home cooked and made with love. Vegetables are a rarity but always appreciated!

6. Why should people listen to your band?

We're a multi-genre band made up of positive people that put real emotion into the music we create, which just happens to be really good!

7. If you could be any athlete, which athlete would you switch places with?

Felix Baumgartner, the guy who broke the sound barrier by skydiving!

8. If you won a Grammy, who would you thank?

Our fans, our parents and family, our booking agent Devin, and our label Autumn + Colour!

9. If you could change something about the music industry, what would it be?

We would make it so that major labels spent their time and money on artists who can write a lifetime of their own good songs instead of on the same artists over and over who require songwriters to write for them. Also, we would make it so that every music streaming site requires people to pay a subscription so that artists can get paid.

10. Memorable tour experience?

Last year, we toured through Little Rock, AR, and as we were trying to leave the town, we got stuck in stand-still traffic. We were just trying to return a Redbox movie on the way out, just a few blocks down the street, so Cameron decided to walk it. As he opened the door and stepped out, his cell phone fell off his lap and slipped right into the sewage gutter. We pulled into a Taco Bell and started making calls but it was late, so all the city offices were closed and the police station wasn't answering their phone! We stopped a cop who was driving by and he called the sewage company who said they don't retrieve those types of items. We almost gave up but desperate, we crafted a crowbar out of part of Cameron's drumset, lifted the sewage cover, Cameron jumped in, grabbed his completely dry phone [in three pieces], and jumped out! We were SO pumped just jumping and hugging each other. Seems silly now but we were so glad to win one battle against Little Rock! We think we're cursed in that city.

11. What does AP.net mean to you?

Since AbsolutePunk.net has always supported my favorite bands, I use it as a hub to find new music. AP.net will always mean great discoveries to me.

12. What is your favorite song to play?

Cupid's Drinking Song. There's a crazy buildup in the end that we love love love to play.

13. What is your vacation spot of choice?

This is not really specific but it would have to be camping in a forest. There are so many places I haven't camped at that I want to try [I've only camped in California and Texas] but my favorite experience so far was in the Redwood forest.

14. What music reminds you of your childhood?

Disney songs, the Beach Boys, N*Sync, and all those sappy love ballads my mom listened to.

15. If you could have any super power, what would it be? Why?

Jedi mind control so everyone would buy our CD! That mixed with Matilda's mind power so we wouldn't have to haul our equipment around every night.

16. Any pre-show superstitions or rituals?

Other than sacrificing a goat to the God of Music, no.

17. What is something that most fans don't know about you?

I'm actually pretty good with power tools. My dad and I built a fort in our backyard when I was 11. It was on stilts, had a trapdoor, two rooms, an attic, air-conditioning... it was massive. And I learned a lot about tools from the experience.

Thanks to touring, Miguel and Cameron are really good at darts and billiards.

18. What is your assessment of the current state of radio? Do you think it's a place where your band could flourish?

The radio business is very tough to break through; you can tell because it rotates the same handful of artists. However, it seems like Indie music is showing up more and more on the radio lately and I think that if listeners' tastes are changing, then yes, it's a possibility that our music could end up on the radio.

19. What do you like to do in your spare time?

Whatever spare time we have, we try to spend it with family and friends. I like to have a good cup of coffee and hang out at a coffee shop or have friends over for a movie night and cook something delicious.

20. What kind of hidden talents do you have?

I worked at a Mexican restaurant in Disneyland for 8 months so I can fold a mean burrito. I can also make a mean latte. I make mean things. - AbsolutePunk.net

Siblings have not always made the best bandmates. The volatile relationship between Noel and Liam Gallagher of Oasis, Ray and Dave Davies of The Kinks, and John and Tom Fogerty of Credence Clearwater Revival ultimately lead to the demise of each iconic artists’ most acclaimed ensemble. By the end, the internal struggles of the band members were often projected outward in the music. So if the peaceful, steady, and often tranquil songwriting of Sick/Sea is in any way a reflection of the relationship between siblings Audrey and Cameron Scott it makes perfect sense that their musical collaborations serve as a channel, leading you from a place of calamity to calmness.

I believe the magic made by this small town Texas trio comes from their ability to perform a kind of emotional judo; taking the seemingly insurmountable weight of sorrowful disenchantment and using the momentum of its onslaughts to write delightful songs. Nowhere is this progression more prevalent than the band’s latest release Moral Compass.

I could be wrong, but the album seems to tell the tale of a girl justifying the heartbreaking habits of a jerk. The record opens with the dark and discontent “Parasite.” Then, this story via song wades through rather tumultuous waters in order to end on stable shores in the still crestfallen, yet somehow satisfied album ender, “Blinked.” So while the source of the singer’s sorrow never gets his comeuppance, our hero does come to terms with the state she finds herself in.

Like good stories, good bands make me wish I were actually in them. There’s a harmony in the music and a transparency in the lyrics of Sick/Sea that draws me in, and makes me feel comfortable in my own skin. So when I got the opportunity to ask singer and guitarist Audrey Scott a few questions last week, it came as no surprise that she answered with an openness usually found only in the candor of close friends.

8 Questions with Audrey Scott of Sick/Sea

BEACON: What’s the most bizarre place that you’ve ever written a song?
Audrey: I used to write my songs on the toilet. I guess it was the only private place I could go to when I lived in a full house back in High School. I named the first song I ever wrote The Toilet Song for that reason.

BEACON: Tell me one thing you did while making Moral Compass that you’ve never done before in the recording process.
Audrey: I have never recorded lead guitar parts! I’m super proud of myself that I did most of them on this record. Also, we
developed a new system during this recording process. Cameron would give his opinions to Tim on something and then they would run it by me for final approval. Cameron has a lot of ideas so this system worked really well. It was great working with Tim Friesen because he would make sure every decision we made was honest and not a decision that we thought would make him happy. He wanted this record to turn out exactly how we envisioned it.

BEACON: When you finished recording the new EP how did you guy celebrate?
Audrey: We went with our producer, tim Friesen, label-mate Austin Archer, and one of the label owners, Travis Groo, to a legit pub in Decatur, GA. We went for their amazing homemade pretzels and banana beer!

BEACON: A lot of bands name their tour van. Does Sick/Sea have a name for theirs?
Audrey: I think we called it the Party Ship once. I’m gonna have to make that stick this tour!

BEACON: When you have a day off on the road how does Sick/Sea pass the time?
Audrey: Usually the guys will drop me off at a coffee shop so I can use the WiFi to do band work while they explore the city we’re in and I’ll meet up with them after some time. We hate passing through towns without getting to see anything but the venue but unfortunately it happens a lot. Sometimes, if there’s no cool downtown area, we’ll go to a mall and run rampant. You’ll find me at Forever 21 with empty pockets and teary eyes. If the mall ahas a Brookstone, we’ll be there for a while getting free massages, and if we have friends in that town, we’ll definitely be hanging out with them!

BEACON: Who is the one person that, if they said they were a fan of your music, would validate you more than anyone else?
Audrey: Kenny Choi from Daphne Loves Derby. I really admire his songwriting.

BEACON: When you’re on the road, what city feels most like home?
Audrey: Wichita, KS for sure. The Barnhart Family from the Vertical Violet home/venue treat us like family. We actually shot our music video for Robot there to showcase their amazing home.

BEACON: What restaurant do you miss most when you’re on tour?
Audrey: I don’t really eat out much but I do miss the coffee shop I work at. It’s called Jitterz Coffee Bar and they have amazing everything. - Listen

Hailing from a small town in Texas, Sick/Sea has anything but a small sound. Audrey’s voice alone is expansive, reaching from the tips of your toes to the deepest part of your soul, but the overall band is just as explosive. This isn’t music to politely play in the background while you study or listen to while you have a few friends over unless, of course, you want your conversation to center around the songs. And this isn’t music that requires effort from the listener to understand; you fall in love immediately and effortlessly. And you don’t fall in love easily because it’s gimmicky and shallow. On the contrary. You fall in love because it’s relatable and honest and good. That, really, makes it the best kind of music.

So, if you haven’t listened yet, find out what Audrey has to say about music in general, or if you’re like me and you’ve already listened and want to know more…

Relate: First memory of music:

Audrey: I remember we had this music figurine in my home when I was a child. It was gold colored and played a music box sorta song. It had a glass dome cover like what covered the rose in Beauty and the Beast. I don’t know what happened to it but I used to wind it up all the time.

R: Name one song you wish you had written and why that particular song:

A: Imogen Heap’s Hide and Seek because it’s so vocal and brilliant. The lyrics don’t really make sense but I kinda love that.

R: Since you’re on tour now-five things you couldn’t leave home without (besides instruments):

A: Sunglasses because we kinda drive a lot, earplugs for when it’s my turn to sleep in the van AND for when we’re watching other bands play, dry shampoo for those lapses between showers, my laptop because I have band business to take care of every day, and my phone for the same reason.

R: Most difficult part of creating music?

A: I’d say it’s creating the right structure. Finding the perfect structure to make a song flow seamlessly is really difficult but fun to mess around with.

R: Most rewarding part of creating music?

A: It’s rewarding when we hear that people listen to our music over and over whether it’s a fan at a show or a blogger reviewing our CD.

R: Favorite song of yours and what inspired you to write it?

A: Right now, it’s Blinked. It’s the slowest song on Moral Compass but the climax is really fun to sing and the whole song has so much emotion. I was inspired to write it when I was missing a friend. Sometimes you can confuse missing a friendship with missing a romantic aspect that was never really there.

R: I just listened to your first EP and was really surprised by the differences between it and Moral Compass. Was that intentional or do you credit time and getting older/gaining more experience?

A: I definitely credit the change in our sound to experience. Experience with songwriting techniques, life experiences, and experience performing. It all ties in to finding our sound and so far, we’re having fun with the whole process! We like the direction we’re moving in and we’re glad our fans do too.

R: If you couldn’t write/create music for a living, what would you want to do instead?

A: I would open a coffeeshop/venue. I want to serve drinks that make people happy and provide an outlet for musicians in the community to build up their repertoire.

R: Best compliment a fan has ever given to you:

A: My favorite compliment to receive is that we have good dynamics. It’s something we want our songs to utilize as much as possible but it’s not something many people are aware of. - RelateMag.com

Hot on the heels of their debut release the sublime ‘Moral Compass’ indie band Sick /Sea are currently travelling the length and breadth of America in an epic live tour. Consisting of siblings Cameron and Audrey and their good friend Miguel Morales they got together as a band back in 2008 in their hometown of McAllen in Texas. Since then they have been working hard and have finally been rewarded when Autumn + Colour Records signed them. Audrey was kind enough to take a little time out to answer my questions about music, the band, and life on the road.
-Can you tell me a little about how the band was formed and what it was like in the very early days? Any early performances that you remember in particular and why?
“Oh boy, when Cameron and I decided to collaborate, I only had an acoustic guitar, no other equipment, and we would have to practice by having him set up his drums against the back of the couch and I would sit over his shoulder so he could hear me singing. I don’t think a lot of people realize exactly how much stuff you need to have a band. A PA system, microphones, cables, amps, it’s just a lot.Our first “show” was for Cameron’s friend’s Sweet Sixteen party and they had one mic, no mic stand, and so I had to borrow someone’s electric guitar and we made a mic stand with part of Cameron’s drum set. Yup, it was terrible but a very memorable first performance.”
-Congratulations on the debut album, which I know is due out very soon. Was it a difficult road to get the album together? Are you excited about the release? It’d been getting a lot of good reviews from the critics. Has that helped calm any nerves?
“I wouldn’t say it was a difficult road, maybe I’d say it was a light-speed-rocket-ship-to-the-moon-road. If Autumn + Colour didn’t sign us when they did, we’d probably be getting ready to get into the recording studio right now to record Moral Compass. Not only that, but all those good reviews are press we would not have gotten if we didn’t get signed. They have hooked us up with Earshot Media, an amazing PR company, and combined with Toro Booking, we now have a great team of people helping us run on the fast track. An yes, all the good reviews have definitely helped calm our nerves. We’re glad that we’re not the only people who like our music.”
-What are your personal highlights from the album and why do those songs stand out for you?
“The climax in Blinked is one of my favorite moments because the gang vocals and the crazy, long, high note I sing were written in the studio. Those little things that get written in the studio are exciting to me because unless you have recording equipment, they are hard to write. It’s fun to record the foundation and then mess around with additions.”
-I know that you’re all big fiction fans, was this the main inspiration behind the album or is there more to what drives you musically? How would you best describe your music?


“I think that reading affects our writing style but I wouldn’t say it’s our inspiration. The inspiration behind these songs was some of the human interactions I’ve experienced in the last year or so. Human emotion and rationale fascinate me, even my own. I always try to keep an objective eye on my emotions but those bursts of intense emotion are magical lyric material and I try to capture it. We describe our music as a mix of genres but it’s still melodic and enjoyable by a wide audience.”
-Do you think that growing up so close to the border has influenced your musical style? Who else do you find musically inspirational?
“I wouldn’t say that any Mexican music found on the border influenced us because we never listened to it except at big family weddings. I would say however, that certain friends I grew up with affected my musical taste, as I’m sure is the same with everyone. Plus, Cameron and I would always be showing each other new music which is probably why we have such a similar taste in it. When we were starting the band up, we really looked up to a band from McAllen called Dignan because they were touring and making simply amazing music. Their drive and work ethic inspired us to take music seriously.”
-The video to ‘Robot’ is great. Was it fun to film? Where was it shot? Did it take a long time or was it quite easy to do?
“Thanks so much! Yes, it was absolutely a blast to film. It was shot at The Vertical Violet in Wichita, KS and as you can see from the video, it’s an amazing house. We love being there and spending time with the family that lives there. We wanted to showcase them because it almost feels selfish to be one of the few to know of such a sanctuary and such selfless people. We shot the video in one day plus the next morning for the outro and it wasn’t exactly easy, I’m just glad we’re all creative people. It took probably 4 tries but we got the long shots pretty quickly and we were very proud of ourselves! We were very happy with the final product.”

-You’re about to embark on quite a tour. How are the preparations going? Have you done anything in particular to get yourselves mentally or physically ready for the road? Where are you most looking forward to playing?
“What we do to prepare for the road is work as many hours as possible at our jobs so we can have money to eat on the road. There are a lot of other things we have to do like design, print, and mail out tour posters to the venues, notify our friends that we’ll be passing through their towns if we need a place to stay, get our van and trailer checked up, make sure our bills are ready to be paid while we’re out of town, and spend as much time with our loved ones as possible before we leave. We had a blast playing New York and we’re really looking forward to playing Atlanta because those cities are just so much fun to explore. We’re also excited to just see all the friends we’ve made in each city. It’s such a privilege to be able to meet interesting people all over the country.” - WithGuitars.com

Dal momento che le mie review funzionano quasi sempre per associazione di idee, devo dire che sì, anche i Sick/Sea mi ricordano qualcosa, ma non so esattamente cosa.
Nonostante questa premessa, in loro c’è un non so che di profondamente originale, e di certo non è il fatto che a cantare è una donna, visto che ormai il panorama musicale ne è pieno. “Originality is dead” dicevano le magliette della Glamour Kills.

“Moral Compass” è il secondo EP della band texana capitanata dai due fratelli Audrey e Cameron Scott.
Ispiratisi alla musica della loro infanzia – indie, jazz, rock – hanno dato vita ad uno stile tutto loro, una reinterpretazione interessante dell’indie rock.
I testi parlano di vita, d’amore e nulla è lasciato al caso. Ogni parola è ben soppesata e studiata, proprio come gli ingredienti di una bella torta. A condire il tutto, poi, la voce di Audrey dà alla ricetta quel tocco in più che la rende speciale.
In apertura troviamo “Parasite”, seguita da “Robot”, primo video/singolo estratto. Ambientato in un “giardino sul retro” qualsiasi (tipico delle case americane), si conclude con l’arrivo della band su un palco, come spesso è accaduto in molti altri video. Ma questa è un’altra storia.
I primi due sono i pezzi più incisivi, che lasciano però presto spazio alla seconda parte dell’EP, decisamente più rilassata, sulle note di “Master Splinter”, passando per il ritmo un po’ incerto di “Mermaid” e per finire con la romantica “Blinked”, che mi riporta alla mente i lenti che si ballavano ai prom negli anni ’50.

Non essendo un’amante del genere, probabilmente non sono la persona più adatta a dare un giudizio su questo album, ma nel complesso direi che merita, se non altro se siete alla ricerca di qualcosa di diverso, di unico.
E poi dai, la copertina è così hipster che mi verrebbe voglia di farne una gigantografia e appenderla sul muro.

Voto: 3/5 - Trabol Meicher

IP: What song off of ‘Moral Compass’ has the most meaning to you and why?
Audrey: Master Splinter because it addresses more than one problem I tend to find myself in. It’s about how it’s necessary to hurt people even though you hate to do it but also about loneliness. The guilt and the loneliness live together despite how much it doesn’t seem like they could or should.
IP: Who are some of your biggest influences musically?
A: Vocally: Regina Spektor and Dear and the Headlights, harmony-wise: Eisley and Relient K, structure: Daphne Loves Derby and Say Anything, feel: As Cities Burn and Manchester Orchestra, and just so many more bands.
IP: Where did you get your band name?
A: It took a super long time to decide on a new name when we decided to scrap the old one. We wanted to capture our spirit and vision. Sick for the Sea was the original idea which accomplished our goals, but shortening it with the slash just made it more unique and we love it.

IP: What is your favorite season and why?
A: Fall for sure. If we have the privilege to be on tour in the Fall [like right at this moment], we get to see the leaves changing color, feel the perfect temperature when we step outside, and see pumpkins and fall decorations everywhere. I think Fall makes everyone happier and we love being surrounded by happy people.

IP: How has the scene in McAllen, Texas helped you or hindered you?
The scene in McAllen has definitely helped us. Since it is much smaller than Austin, it’s much easier to get exposure, and therefore easier to build a fanbase.
IP: Who are some local bands that you think people should really check out?
A: Dignan and The Young Maths
IP: What is your favorite thing to do when you aren’t playing music?
A: Spend time with friends and good coffee.
IP: In your opinion, what is the most important aspect of a relationship and why?
A: Honesty because not only will it show who you both are immediately, but you’ll also avoid a lot of drama and problems in the future.
IP: What’s the worst thing that’s happened to you while onstage?
A: This has happened a couple of times but sometimes I’ll be having throat problems whether it’s a sore throat or just a dry throat. I’ll be singing and then I’ll have a massive coughing attack. I’m trying to get through the song so I’ll turn around when I don’t have to sing and try to cough it out but when I turn back around, my eyes are all watery and my face is red. I probably look like I was crying very intensely. With spasms.
10. Boxers or briefs?
A: I’m not a boy but I’d say boxer briefs! - Ink & Paper Media

Siblings in a band? Yup, that's what this indie pop band has Audrey and Cameron Scott along with Miguel Morales create a trio of unique sounds with an interesting angst.

The band is from McAllen Texas and signed to Autumn + Colour Records, is literally non stop touring with one of the tightest tours I have seen in a long time. I'm sorry to say we missed them at CMJ and now, well they're headed South with a vengeance. Thanks to Ashley Scott for giving us her five.

Seems touring looks good on them, though with Hurricane Sandy smack dab in the middle of their East Coast run, there has to be some war stories. Hit their Facebook for their insane tour listing.

1. What gets you moving and motivated?

The caffeine in coffee. But really, every time we sit down to plan something out or talk to our Booking Agent about future tours, we get super motivated and it keeps us pushed to work hard.

2. What's your tour horror or glory story?

Well, we randomly shot a music video for our song Robot last tour. It's kinda a one-shot type of video and we were super duper proud with how well it turned out. Then a few months later, we're on our next tour [this tour], sitting in our friend's NYC basement, when we see that Justin Bieber has a new music video out. We're pretty excited [I mean… not excited] but as we're watching the intro unfold, we all have looks of horror because he stole our idea!! So Justin, if you're reading this, that wasn't cool.

3. Wake up in the morning.. first thought?

Food! I'll already be thinking of the first morsel of food I'll be able to put in my mouth.

4. What is your 'guilty pleasure' or song people would be surprised is on your iPod?

Justin Bieber for sure. He is our go-to guy when we need a mega pop pick-me-up jam.

5. What's one thing you want the world to know about your group?

That "we can go nowhere but up" -Justin Bieber

We're doing what we love and will only get better from of all this touring and songwriting experience so we hope the world is ready for us! - Rock NYC

Sick / Sea - Moral compass (2012) Autumn and Colour Records
Produced by Sick / Sea
INDIE ROCK
Tracks : 1.Parasite 2.Robot 3.Master splinter 4.Mermaid 5.Blinked
www.facebook.com/SickSea
3,5 out of 5

Texas based Sick / Sea was founded by the siblings Cameron and Audrey Scott, they released their first EP in 2011 called "Oh ship" and in October their follow up "Moral compass" comes out. Drummer Cameron and singer Audrey are influenced by bands like Daphne Loves Derby, Copeland and Eisley. You can also throw in a dose of The Cardigans into the mix and we´re close to the sound of "Moral compass", the new EP contains 5 really good dreamlike rock songs where "Robot" and "Master splinter" stand out. The band also features a third member but I can´t find any info of who he is, anyhow I won´t be too surprised if we get to hear the music of Sick/Sea in upcoming movies. I like ´em! - Roth N Roll

I’m a sucker for a band who has created a congruent album sound that makes it terribly difficult to categorize other than, um…indie rock? Read through the end of this and I’ll tell you exactly why you should open your ears to Moral Compass, the new five-track EP from sibling-genre-mutants Sick/Sea.

Audrey and Cameron Scott jump right into the rock, laying down a grungy backbone with a styilistically lazy lead line thrown around it. There are hints of Silversun Pickups influence in this groove-driven section paired with affected vocals. The build is a bit long, but definitely makes the final chorus feel deserved. This even smells of some slight emo notes but with tones fit for a hard rock band.

“Robot” steers a little further in the indie(whatever that means) end of the spectrum hitting some similarities to fellow female-fronted groups like Metric and The Yeah Yeah Yeahs. Audrey Scott’s vocal presence is more relaxed in this track, and that lays the groundwork for the enjoyably-intense melodies in the chorus. This definitely isn’t your cookie-cutter alt-rock group, as they seem to opt for the gradual builds with some glorious instrumental breaks.

Already at track three, “Master Splinter” takes the softness of an oldies-infused Rilo Kiley song and throws it through a distortion pedal. Save for the wailing vocals, they’re achieving an almost Zeppelin-y feel in the choruses. I’ll also have to compliment them on their vocal production; the vocals are wet with layers of reverb, delay and distortion in such a graceful way. It never distracted from the song either (except when I noticed it). Slowing it down a little more, the Scott’s deliver a cinematic ballad that really shows how great a four-piece band can sound without getting too loud. “Mermaid” is a smooth-moving rhythm that delivers you to the end all too soon with instrumentation breaking off in a delicate fade out.

With the final track slowing it down even more, “Blinked” is a heart-ache to the tune of surfy guitars, and swung cymbals spread over the jazziest rhythm thus far. The epic vocal build into the bridge and outro stretch the song over more genres. As quickly as they reel you back in, the band abruptly drops out to let the vocals carry the music through the end. With one final chord passing through the tremolo pedal, Scott(the girl one) softly preaches “you really don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone.” And just like that, Moral Compass is over…until I press play again.

Sick/Sea’s music is worth a listen and a share, so check them out and read up on their upcoming EP to find out how to support them! - SoCalMusicToday.com

?? Sick/Sea ?????f????? t? ??? t??? EP ap? t?? Autumn + Colur Records.

? d?s??? a?t?? ??e? ???µa "Moral Compass" ?a? e??a? µ?a a??????? p??sp??e?a. ?ta? a???sete t? EP a?t? ?a pa?at???sete ?t? ??e? µ?a µ??? ap? d??f??a µ??s??? a???sµata p?? ????? ta µ??? t?? µp??ta? ap? ta pa?d??? t??? ?????a. ?? cd a?t? ap?te?e?ta? ap? 6 ??µµ?t?a, ta ?p??a ??????ta? st??? ???µ??? t?? Indie, Jazz, Rock ?a? se µe???? s?µe?a pa?at????µe ?a a?ap?d?e? ???? t???? t?? Hardcore µ??s????. ?? ?a? ?p???e? p??????a sta t?a???d?a ?s?? af??? t?? µ??s??? ?a?a?t??a ?a? ???e t?a???d? de???e? ?a e??a? µ??ad???, ß?????? p??? ta ??? ??a p??? ??a?? ap?t??esµa d??t? ????? s??d?aste? p??a p??? ??a?a ?a? de?????? ?a ????? µ?a ??µe?a µeta?? t???. ?? "Moral Compass" e?f???e? µ?a ?????t?ta, µ?a ?a??t?µe??a st?? µ??s??? ?a? ta ???a??e?a f???t??? d????? ??a ?d?a?te?? <<s?stat???>>, t? ?p??? pat?e? p??? sta d??at? drums, sta jazz riff t?? µp?s?? ?a? st?? ?eµ?t? ?????a. ??? a?t? ???p?? de???e? ??a ???µ? µ??s??? ?f?? p?? s???de?eta? ap? st????? ?? ?p???? µ????e ??a t?? a??p? ?a? t?? ??? ?a? e??a? ß?a?µ???? ap? t?? ?a??µe????t?ta t?? a???p??. ??e? p?a?µat?p????e? µ?a p??? ?a?? d???e?? st? EP a?t? ?a? ß??p??µe ?t? t? s?????t?µa ?pe?ta t? "Oh Ship" s??e???e? µe ??a? p??? d??at? d?s?? p?? af??e? p????? ?a??? e?t?p?se?? st??? ?pad??? t?? ?a??? µ??s????.

Se a?t? p?? p??pe? ?µ?? ?a sta???µe pe??ss?te?? e??a? sta f???t??? t?? t?a???d?st??a? t?? Sick/Sea. ???a? a?t? p?? de????? t? ??t? pa?ap??? sta ??µµ?t?a t?? d?s???, e??a? a?t? p?? s?? µ????? ?? <<st??µa >> sta a?t?? s?? ?ta? a???? ta t?a???d?a t?? "Moral Compass"?a??? ? µe??d?a p?? ß?????? e??a? e?a??et??? ?a? se af????? pa?ap??? ap? ??a??p???µ??? ?a? st?? ????? a??? ?a? st?? ?aµ???? ??te?. ??a µe???? µp??ß? ???p?? st?? Audrey Scott ?a? st??? Sick/Sea.

??a ta ??µµ?t?a t?? EP e??a? ??a?a! - Rock N' Roll Town

Und das bitteschön mit ähnlich intensivierter Ader. „Moral Compass“ nennt das Duo das Produkt, welches die lebensfrohen Gestalten Audrey und Cameron Scott über knappe zwanzig Minuten ausbreiten. Dabei sind SICK/SEA auf der Hut vor Einöde und Stagnation: „Parasite“ erinnert rockig an PARAMORE und schöne Mid-90s-Alternativen – zart breite Frauenstimme und schleppende Drums inklusive. „Mermaid“ gibt sich verspielter und träumt sich neben dem erkalteten Au Lait durch den Tag, stets hält Frontfrau Audrey dabei das musikalische Gewand an der kurzen Leine.
Ausbrechen darf „Moral Compass“ höchstens mal in die Dämmerung, nicht aber ins Partydickicht oder gar in die schwarze Nacht. In McAllen - ganz im Süden von Texas - mag man es scheinbar heimelig und rollt sich lieber in die Lieblingsdecke ein, bevor man den Stress und das Unwohl des Alltags ausbaden muss. „Robot“ kann da ganz entspannt zwischen Indiepop und bluesigem Orgelrock durch die Gassen schweben, keine Gitarre wird aufmüpfig oder verkennt die Art, wie Scott besonnen „Californ-I-A“ ins Mikro haucht, als würde sie auf Watte dazu tanzen. SICK/SEA stimmen ihrem Kunstvorhaben selbst am deutlichsten zu: Jazzig, elegant, gediegen soll – rüpelhaft oder verschroben bitte nicht.

„Moral Compass“ stellt die Weichen diesbezüglich nicht nur auf Niveau von „Studierenden“ und Ausreißhungrigen, sondern verliert sich vorsätzlich. Neben der dampfenden Tasse Grüntee und den Dinkelcrackern, in einem warmen Wohnzimmer mit gedämmter Beleuchtung. Ganz normale Texas-Seele eben. - All Schools Network

When I was told about Sick/Sea’s new EP Moral Compass coming out, I was given the following description:

“Theirs are songs of life and love and the discernment gained through human relationship.”



The description was not far from the feeling I got from the album. I found myself encased within Audrey Scott’s peaceful vocals along with the bass riff, guitar chords, and drumming by both Audrey and her brother Cameron; creating a sound that may be similar to other bands, yet it is different in its own right. There are five songs that are full of emotion and stories.

The first track “Parasite” evokes a story about how a relationship is ended by a betrayal. It starts off with a riff that touches you to your core, begging for more. The lyrical side of the song provides a fresh angle to look at things; where a relationship doesn’t necessarily end completely after finding out about such an act. The upbeat rhythm does nothing less than provide a rich accent to the lyrics.

In the next track, “Robot”, we get something that can either be part of the same story within “Parasite,” or something new all-together. The song is covered by a bass riff that is nothing short of catchy, with a drumming rhythm that progresses the song. We hear of how after a relationship may end, it does not mean you can’t enjoy your life. Enjoying it moment by moment, thinking about the now, forgetting the past, and letting the future become the present without worry. I found myself hitting the repeat button quite a bit on this song, and their music video is quite an entertaining one as well (check it down below).

I found myself hitting repeat a large amount on the final song “Blinked” as well; where we hear Audrey singing about something I didn’t think woman could even speak of: the “friend zone.” We learn that not just Audrey, but every female knows of the “friend zone.” Right there I felt there was some sort of glitch in the matrix, this world can’t be real. But alas, upon repeating this song well over a dozen times I found it was not a mistake. The second thing I learned in this song is that sometimes you get “friend-zoned” without the girl’s knowledge of it. Even girls make the mistake of not knowing what you have until it’s gone. If I was forced to pick a song I felt was the “best” I would have to go with this song. It is not only something that blew my mind, but also one of the slower songs in the album, showing that this EP is not always just about upbeat songs about relationships; it is also about slower songs about what could have been.

If you are looking for an album about relationships, whether it’s a recent breakup, missing someone you wish you had, or someone cheating, you have a song for that in the EP. I am not sure when, but I noticed how I kept playing this album just for my own personal entertainment as opposed to listening for the review. I still listen to them weeks after working out what I wanted to say for this. Autumn+Colour Records got it right when they picked up this band. So if you have 5 bucks laying around pre-order the album now at Autumn+Colour’s site, or buy it October 16th. I know I will be.

If you can’t wait until then, check out their EP Oh Ship they released last year that’s available for only five dollars. - Destroy the Cyb.org

Sitting on campus outside the door as my best friend takes steps towards her future, I’m at a standstill with Sick/Sea’s Moral Compass playing. Audrey Scott’s voice is like a songbird narrator of my afternoon. Everyone moving in fast motion and me, Zach Braff blending in against a wall. Moral Compass doesn’t mirror my current state though. It would if I was a girl with heartbreak issues, but alas I’m a loner, but the album does make for a good companion.

Let’s get straight to the head the class with “Parasite.” It’s angry chick (mellow) rock at its best. It’s clearly a tale of a girl who’s been cheated on. She insists she gets it, but she obviously doesn’t, and this just shows off the female mentality; say one thing and mean another. Following close behind is musical goodness is “Robot.” When you start with “When I was a robot,” you know things aren’t going to be normal. The rest plays out of a rambling of weird. It sounds like that of an intoxicated ex or a Barenaked Ladies song. In no way is Sick/Sea like the “One Week” men style wise. It’s just the random way their lyrics come out that draws the comparison.

Falling in-between the good and the not so great is “Blinked.” The vocals are sweet and this could be the ballad at the end of a pop record if the music was tweaked a bit. May this be the anthem for every guy or gal who landed in the friend zone. Just know they’ll regret it one day (hopefully).

When it comes to ones that didn’t make a lasting mark…”Master Splinter” didn’t give me turtle power and “Mermaids” failed to connect with me on any level.

The pace of the world never wound down but the music did as Sick/Sea’s Moral Compass slowed down after its last journey through my ear waves. If you’re into bands like Best Coast, Belle Historie and Dum Dum Girls than do yourself a solid and pick up Sick/Sea’s Moral Compass, out October 16th. - Golden Mixtape

Sick/Sea, don’t you mean sea-sick? No, I’m not talking about the illness! I’m talking about the powerhouse indie group hailing from Mcallen, Texas. Sick/Sea is a trio with talent bigger than the town they hail from. With two EPs under their belt and a couple of national tour runs, Sick/Sea is stepping up to the plate with their label debut, Moral Compass EP, off of Autumn + Colour Records.

Sick/Sea’s ensemble is comprised of the brother-sister duo Audrey Scott on guitar and vocals and Cameron Scott on drums. On bass is Miguel Morales with some of the best jazzy licks I have heard on a debut EP ever.

The EP starts off with a vengeance with the song "Parasite", not revenge song per say, but one with emotions that you can feel straight through Ms. Scott’s phenomenal voice. And let me tell you, most of these lyrics are some that will hit close to home for most of the listeners. "Robot" is definitely a track listeners can get their dancing shoes on and grab someone close and head to dance floor!

But by far, my favorite track on the EP is the closer song "Blinked". This could possibly be one of the most emotionally driven songs on this release. As the song starts, I feel as if it’s the end of a classic jazz cd. Audrey’s vocals at the end of this track dropped my jaw faster than a right hook from Mohammad Ali.

Everyone on the EP is musically brilliant, Miguel’s jazz-y walking bass lines, Cameron’s subtle but fantastic drumming. This EP is going to be one that I’ll be spinning until their next release, hopefully a full length! The only complaint I have is that I wish it was longer, I can listen to this band non-stop.

Sick/Sea will definitely fill that jazz/indie-rock void in that heart of yours. I’d like to congratulate you guys again and wish the best for you! Make sure to pick up this EP and their past release, Oh Ship! EP, on iTunes.

9.5/10 - Me Gusta Reviews

Sick/Sea holds the ability to convey the vibe through their music that matches the imagery projected by their odd name. Admittedly, this could be me just making that projection out of subconsciously decided necessity, but whatever. So how exactly does this trio exude a deluge of aggression in an environment where this isn’t typical? Sick/Sea are an indie rock trio that leans on the heavy side of the spectrum. Think of them as a more angst-driven Eisley. Audrey Scott does at times sound like a dead ringer for the DuPree sisters, notably in “Master Splinter” but really in all five songs. The band is appearing at the time of this writing in the one of the showcases in the much hailed CMJ Festival. If you are unfamiliar, CMJ is a music festival that occupies dozens of venues all over New York City, showcasing up and coming artists. Think of it as the SXSW of the East Coast.

As aforementioned, the music is aggressive. Surprisingly so, actually. This isn’t to say that we are listening to somebody similar to Flyleaf or Lacuna Coil. Going by pure definition, the band is not hard rock at all. However, the way Audrey sings just conveys conflict, albeit in a beautifully compelling way. Note how the vocals soar almost immediately in “Parasite” for instance. No build-up to a climax. Sick/Sea has a message they want to convey to the listener in the song (and all the others too). The succinct nature of “Mermaid” seems to be sending a message of sorts as well, albeit one that might be left open to the listener to interpret. The record finally lets up a bit in “Blinked,” but the percussion is mixed loud enough that I kept expecting things to pick up, even though they never did. Interesting, but it works. Hopefully you have the opportunity to cross paths with this band in a live setting – I would be very interested to see how the mood of this EP translates to their live shows.

Score: 3.5/5 - I Am Tuned Up

Coming straight out of Texas, post-indie three-piece Sick/Sea have released their debut EP, Moral Compass, a confident first effort that only falls down occasionally. And like a newborn deer taking it's first steps, you know that it won't be long before they can stand proudly on all feet.

Instrumentally Moral Compass excels, building to choruses with waves of clean guitar riffs and superbly syncopated drum beats. Musically the EP bares similarities to |The XX or Mogwai with their brand of commercially viable post-rock, with a large dose of indie-rock thrown in to keep the listener entertained. Vocally the EP suffers from a slightly generic sound, it's not that there's a bad range or that it's out of tune, but lead singer Audrey Scott's voice is hardly ear-grabbing, reminiscent of Amy Lee of Evanescence or Haley Williams of Paramore (and do we really need another one of either of those?).



Lyrically, Moral Compass veers from commercially simplistic to relatively endearing in a heartbeat. Some lines sound too brazenly facile to hold your interest in the songs subtext, while others clearly have had a lot of thought put into them. "I change my dreams like socks on my feet" falls into the former category, and pushing the metaphor beyond that was not an advisable move, but because these hiccups are so fleeting it hardly mars your enjoyment of the music at all.

By far the strongest track on the EP, Robot hits the balance just right. There's a strong focus on the atmosphere of the song, beginning with a steady guitar riff that builds up in layers, culminating in a glorious indie chorus of hand-clapping drum-work, weaving bass and intelligently minimal guitar. Likewise Mermaids is a gratifying listen, utilizing the same skills found in Robot to create a richer, more identifiable tune.



So Moral Compass is a complicated animal, powerful and enigmatic but also too lyrically soft to hit the emotional point their music aspires to. But that doesn;t mean that you should count Sick/Sea out, with Moral Compass they have shown a real knack for creating enjoyable and exciting music. It's more that the worlds of vocals and instruments seem too separate to be awe-inspiring, but that will come with time. "I'll be the first to admit, I've got some growing up to do" sings Scott on Robot, and you can't help but agree.

And the hilarious only comment:
Ben Draiman • 5 months ago -
"Poor girl! Why does every new female alternative rock singer need to be compared to Amy Lee or Haley Williams? If anything, she is far more reminiscent of Tanya Donelly of Belly and also the Breeders. She has very good clean vocals with decent range and a tone in her voice that brings back the good old days of alternative music. Judging from the video they seem to be the weird creative types which only adds. Great effort here!" - Alt Sounds

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

The smaller the size of the band the larger the soft spot in my heart for them is. I myself have spent many years trying to be a solo musician and composing music as just one person, let me tell you that it ain’t easy. Being one person trying to fit into multiple roles, let alone write for them, is quite the challenge so when brother/sister duo Sick/Sea are able to create such a full-bodied complete-band sound you know someone has got the chops.

Siblings Audrey and Cameron Scott join their family forces together to create a very emotionally-tinged Indie music with a lot of darker overtones to it. With the eventual addition of non-family member Miguel Morales (and apparently another member named Justin according to Last.fm) this Texan group has put out quite the release with the 5-track Moral Compass. While Moral Compass has some brilliant moments it is not without its missteps along the way.

Parasite and Robot kick off the album and act both as summarizing how the music sounds and the lack of cohesion the album sometimes expresses. Parasite features this almost Post-Punk atmosphere with its reverberation and melodic-but-not-exactly-inviting composition which works but is guilty of absolutely clashing with the way Audrey Scott’s singing sounds. They both work on their own but the cohesion between the two is lacking as she’s a little too uplifting and the music’s a little too dark.



While not as problematic, Robot also counts as a “low” of the album. The vocals and music flow together worlds better but dear lord this song is guilty of spending four minutes going nowhere. All the pieces of the song feel like they are thrown to the background and no dominant aspect takes the show other than possibly Audrey’s vocals but they are so soft and effect-laden they don’t particularly demand the spotlight. It’s a nice effort but it overall lacks any sort of bite or engagement. Bonus points awarded for Audrey being extremely cute and playing a semi-hollowbody Telecaster. Musician Crush Status: Confirmed.

However, with the first two trip-ups out of the way Master Splinter (please tell me this is a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles reference) completely nails the little problems Parasite and Robot had. Everything feels so in tune with the separate parts and the vocals do a flawless job of complimenting the music. Nowhere in the song is this more apparent than the chorus which features a big stinking hook and a very powerful delivery from Audrey. The emotions, the tone, the everything, it’s just perfect in this song and it is so refreshing to hear Sick/Sea at their full power after the first two lackluster tunes.



Given Master Splinter’s success, it’s sad to see the next track Mermaid being such a snoozefest. There’s just nothing appealing about this song and if you want detailed reasons on why just re-read the paragraphs regarding Parasite and Robot. It suffers the same plague as its predecessors in that it lacks cohesion and anything particularly noteworthy for the listener to grab on to. Now if you are going down this review seeing that I’ve really only liked one song so far and being slightly confused by the 4 star rating you saw at the beginning, well, I can understand. Just hold on dear reader because you are about to understand what saves this album from being below-average and instead turns it into a very worthy purchase.

Blinked hands-down makes the whole experience of listening to Moral Compass feel so fulfilling and, in my opinion, stands out in the top percentage of songs released this year. Scrapping the Indie Pop feel seen in earlier songs Blinked goes for this very passionate and emotional jazzy Lounge feel and by the stars does it nail it. Soft, caressing guitar lines and minimalistic drum work serve as the perfect backdrop for Audrey as she sings her tale of heartbreak for all at the martini bar to hear; it’s almost uncanny how much this feels like it’s made to be a movie moment. And on the topic of Audrey’s vocals it feels like in the preceding four tracks she wasn’t even trying, the range, tone, and delivery of her performance in Blinked is jaw-dropping and could easily bring a tear to your eye with just how powerful she sounds. Even better is this song’s climax with the multiple layers of Audrey’s singing accompanied by a soaring guitar line that ends with this quiet fade to the closing like the last act of a three act movie. Blinked showcases the kind of emotion that will shiver throughout your body every time you hear it, it is a song so blindingly powerful that it completely justifies this entire release. It would be a crime against humanity to not hear this song and there is no better place for it on Moral Compass than the ending tune that sees you out as the experience ends.



Moral Compass as a whole isn’t that hot of a release, the number of below-average songs (three) outnumbers the above-average songs (two) but as controversial as it may seem having said that the existence of Blinked changes the way Moral Compass is seen. It may not be pretty but those tracks, as good or bad as they may seem, lay the foundation for Blinked to come in and make Moral Compass more of an overall experience and definitely something to pick up and listen to. - WhatCulture!

Formed in 2008, Sick/Sea’s roots emerge from a small town on the southern brink of Texas. With such a vigorous and powerful sound, it is difficult to believe that the band only consists of three members: siblings Audrey and Cameron Scott and Miguel Morales. Their latest EP, Moral Compass, was released October 16th, on Autumn + Color Records.

The first song, “Parasite,” is a powerful track that sets the EP ablaze. The provoking lyricism and the use of repetition to capture the listener’s attention are heightened by the celestial deliverance by vocalist Audrey Scott. In this track, Audrey Scott’s voice constantly fluctuates from high to low, allowing her to demonstrate her intriguing range. I think most would have a difficult time not singing along to this song’s relatable lyrics.

The rest of the EP takes an undulating path, constantly slowing and rising in tempo, displaying that Sick/Sea are able to convey a strong message without being quite as audacious as the first track. The next song, “Robot,” pauses towards the end on a lofty note, then breaks down to a slower pulse, before finishing with heavy percussion.

The next track, “Master Splinter,” regresses slightly more than the last, before progressing into an upbeat chorus. It is definitely a song that has the potential to be even more energetic live, because of the amount of passion in the chorus alone.

Aside from a peculiar intro, what stood out most to me about the fourth track, “Mermaid,” is that it is by far Audrey Scott’s most ethereal example of range.

The last song, “Blinking,” is the slowest of all, but equally as expressive as the others. The guitar riffs paired with Audrey Scott’s vocals are a beautiful note to end on.

You can truly feel the emotion pouring from every track of Sick/Sea’s latest EP. The first song starts off strong, but the overall tone is slowly broken down as the songs progress. Audrey Scott’s vocals not only illuminate the music, but haunt the listener. Fans of Copeland, Eisley, and Paramore will fall in love with Moral Compass.

-Ashari Lynn Campbell - Music Never Sleeps

Autumn + Colour Records, 2012
Reviewed by Diana Conti on 25 October 2012
Rated 6 out of 10
Key Track: Blinked

Debut EP from Austin, Texas hopefuls mine heartache, but don't quite strike gold
Hailing from a small town in Texas, siblings Audrey and Cameron Scott joined together with Miguel Morales to form the indie pop-rock trio, Sick/Sea.

Taking into account the band’s humble beginnings and down-to-earth attitude, this is a musical outfit you want to like. Unfortunately, their latest release isn’t quite the ‘trend-breaking’ music type it claims to be.

There’s no denying the strength of Audrey’s voice against the reverb-laden guitars and beating drums, however, her unique vocals aren’t enough to carry the record and it falls flat, failing to take the listener anywhere for more than a few moments at a time.

Moral Compass kicks off with ‘Parasite’, a dark and brooding tune laced with repetition. The track sets the tone of the whole record; love and loneliness, served with a side offering of regret and guilt. Sound painful? It kind of is.

It all feels a little too teenage melodrama. Not that it’s always a bad thing, the production values are highly marketable and are likely to find an audience in those who enjoy melodic pop rock. Straightforward lyrics about relationships and deception are likely to tug at the heartstrings of teenagers above any other demographic.

Although, sometimes the lyrics get a little too obscure and feel truly lost. In ‘Robot’, Audrey sings with conviction ‘I changed my dreams like the socks on my feet/But oh, my feet have grown’ appearing to be an attempt at playfulness gone wrong.

Recommended listening only if you’re going through a tough time in love (and want to hear someone sing about it). - Tone Deaf

score: 6.0 out of 10

Sick/Sea is based out of Texas and was originally a brother/sister duo made up of Audrey and Cameron Scott. Apparently they’ve expanded the band with one or two members, depending on which site you choose to believe.

“Parasite” gets to kick off this 5-song EP and shows a dark and brooding kind of indierock that stands in juxtaposition to Audrey’s more uplifting vocals. The same can be said for “Robot” actually. It’s melodic but not in a singalongy kinda way and sounds pretty good. Only closing track “Blinked” feels a bit out of place with its jazzy mood and is the least interesting song on here.

Overall “Moral Compass” deserves to be heard though and I’m curious how they will evolve further down the line. - PunkRockTheory.com

PAGES 10 & 11 - Encore Magazine

“Nature and people are inspirations.” So says Audrey Scott, lead singer and guitarist for the Rio Grande Valley indie pop band Sick/Sea. “Camping trips always get my creative flow back when it’s been waning.” This fascination is evident almost immediately on the opening track of their new EP, Oh, Ship. The song, “Campers Combo,” starts off with a vaguely Latin beat fused with surf-y guitars that set a relaxed mood. Audrey’s girlpop vocals come in shortly thereafter and the casual, back-to-nature story is off, describing a camping trip somewhere near highway 281. “We decide to roast some hotdogs/and in wonder watch the slow, setting sun,” she sings and the sitting-in-a-hammock-between-two-palms mood is further enhanced by the casual strum of a ukelele.

Initially working solo, Audrey’s stage name was also nautically related. “I just used…the pirate version of my name.” (Arrgh!drey, if you’re wondering). By the time she was asked to perform, her brother Cameron joined the act, providing drum parts for the songs she’d already penned. They played as a duo for about a year. “The more we became a unit, the less I wanted it to be about me.” This, in addition to the difficulty others had spelling Arrgh!drey, precipitated a name change. The McAllen natives decided on Sick for the Sea, because of a “longing for adventure.” They dropped the articles and dropped an EP, Wishful Sinking, as Sick/Sea. Miguel Morales joined the band soon thereafter and rounded out the trio. A fourth member, Justin Marin, moved to Dallas in early 2010.

Back to the EP. The third track, “Convenient,” starts off with a sexy, Twin-Peaks slowbeat that brings in that surf-y guitar again. “Don’t call me,” Audrey sings, “when she stops calling you,” and her voice is so thrillingly teasing, you are instantly filled with regret, though you’ve clearly done nothing wrong because you’ve never actually met her. “I won’t waste my heart on you,” she intones before a long, long pause that ends abruptly with a jump-up, horn section surprise complete with sing-along whoa-uh-uh-ohs. “There’re other girls who will vie for your attention/but I couldn’t care if you die,” she says dryly, and ends the song way too soon. Why’d you break up with her? Dummy.

“Derby” is straight up rock filled throughout with inspired handclaps. The song, ostensibly about musicians changing for the worse, is well-crafted and is filled with harmonies and multi-layered vocals. Near the end, Audrey breathes ethereally, “Your voice makes me close my eyes and tilt my head and spill every breath from my chest.” Ditto. The handclaps that follow are an inspired touch as they simultaneously bring the song up and back down as Audrey demands: “But why do they let themselves become what they always would say they couldn’t convey?/And why do I still continue to fill my playlist with them? I never condemn him.” This last lyric totally parallels my relationship with Bono.

Oh, Ship is a five song EP and a great listen if not too short, “Convenient” in particular I wish was longer. Sick/Sea will be touring starting this June. This marks their first ever tour. It “will take us up the East Coast, to New York, around to Michigan and straight back down.” The hope is that their fourth member, Justin, will join them for the tour. - Contemporary Snobbery

Peggy Lee’s 1969 hit “Is That All There Is?” has always possessed the inscrutable power to leave me completely covered in goose-bumps. She speaks, then sings, then settles in halfway between the two—where you can’t be sure whether she is singing or just talking, but either way, you feel her dominating voice pervading your intimate space. Audrey Scott from Texas-based trio Sick/Sea (formally known as Arrgh!drey) delightfully delivers an impressively similar effect on the fresh, new EP, “Oh Ship”. Her vibrant harmonizing and guitar strumming, paired with tight drum melodies by her brother Cameron Scott, and Miguel Morales’ rich, steady bass line, recalls the emotionally-drenched tracks of Copeland—with a drowsy maritime motif and unexpected jazz-inspired interludes to add flavor.
The EP kicks off with ‘Camper’s Combo’, a cutesy narrative combined with a clean melody and slight ska twist: an ideal song for midsummer road trips and lazy hammock days.
‘Talking Doorman’ opens with quite the unexpected instrument for an indie-pop band: a trombone. This jazzy number even includes a sprinkling of organ keys—it’s like crossing Eisley with Al Green!
With ‘Convenient’, the band smartly approaches the cliché, “pissed off” female ballad. This dynamic track begins with a slow and unfussy air and snappily reflective lyrics. Then, slightly over a minute in, glitzy trumpets, violent clapping, and thunderous vocals ensue. “There are other girls who will vie for your attention, but I couldn’t care if you died.” Talk about angst!
Likewise, ‘Derby’ provides an equally catchy and fiery tune with a smaller dose of grandeur, and more passive lyrics. “People change, oh i know that already.”
“Trace your doorway with mistletoe; I’ll hide with you from the hiding snow.” This last track, ‘For the Holidays’ grants the EP a perennial listening season. Its charming lyrics, and silky instrumentals paired with Audrey’s touching vocals create a festive masterpiece for when the weather cools down.
This EP may not be flawless (for example, there a few untidy refrains), it unquestionably takes multiple steps towards a dynamic quality that is unique to the indie scene—and perhaps even has the potential to transcend the genre entirely. - The Blue Indian

Posted: Saturday, July 26, 2014 7:13 pm
By DYLAN GOFORTH World Staff Writer | 0 comments
The Sick/Sea trio of Johnny Garza, and Audrey and Cameron Scott had no problems filling the Majestic with sound Saturday.
But when they really shined was when Audrey unleashed the full range of her voice. Luckily, each song seemed designed to do just that. The group's melodic rhythms would slowly build on each song until Scott reached her peak.
That peak was almost always achieved in the middle of a track, letting the band break down their sound multiple times each song. As melodic, almost symphonic, as the band is at times, their ability to speed each track up and down almost at will stood out.
Each song in their set was arranged well, meaning the vocals, guitar, drums and bass never muddled together, keeping the songs fresh - no easy feat in a smaller venue like The Majestic. Each instrument, especially Cameron Scott on the drums, was given time to stand out on each track. - DYLAN GOFORTH World Staff Writer

Indie pop trio Sick/Sea are one of our favorite up and coming groups, channeling a substantive, layered, and eclectic flavor of pop and alt rock, reminiscent of acts like Eisley, Merriment, and Copeland. For $5, this Texas group is perhaps the best under the radar value of the weekend, no matter who the “TBA” openers turn out to be. [PO] - TWiN | This Weekend in Nashville

Today, we would like to introduce you to our good friends from Texas, Sick/Sea.
“Sick/Sea plays Indie ballads that cut straight to the soul. Prepare to be moved.”
The band is composed of singer Audrey Scott, Cameron Scott on drums and Jonathan Garza on bass. They have an incredibly unique style, a combination of jazz and indie rock fused with crashing bass lines and dynamic drum beats. After the release of two EP’s and numerous successful tours, Sick/Sea is embarking on their latest tour, which includes a stop in Tulsa. Check out the music video for their song “Blinked” directed by Manny Garza, and if you like what you hear, don’t miss them this Sunday June 29th at The Vanguard with Chad Sugg, Summit, Roots of Thought, The Lukewarm and The Capital Why’s. - No Cover Magazine