But we can’t only blame Milligan for the unpleasant sugar rush that is The Elms, I mean the band (lead singer guitarist Owen Thomas is the songwriter) performs the songs. Thomas’ may write catchy-as-hell pop songs with well executed melodies, the problem is the hooks. Where are they? The absence of a single solid hook, well… it sucks. And the record suffers because of it.

Thomas’ femme-boy-johnny-jump-up croons bring the discerning listener into the songs. Through the verses the band gently builds to what should be the hook, instead they flop into the chorus. Opening track and never-would-be-a-hit-single-in-the-real-world “Hey Hey” is a primed and perfect example of the shortcomings of Big Surprise. This song (and “A Minute to Ourselves”) contains a strong intro that fizzles into a sissy-barred change, then you find Owen with his tongue in your ear and whispering how much he loves you on the verse. Smiling you get ready for the kiss when the chorus comes, but there is no hook and he walks away to look in the mirror at his pretty face as he smiles and winks back at the reflection.