A History of Big|Brave

Big|Brave: Pushing the Boundaries of Metal Music

Big|Brave is a Canadian experimental metal band that has been pushing the boundaries of the genre since their inception in 2012. Comprised of guitarist Mathieu Ball, vocalist and guitarist Robin Wattie, and drummer Loel Campbell, the trio has gained a reputation for their unique sound, blending elements of post-metal, drone, and doom to create a sonic landscape that is both haunting and mesmerizing.

The band’s journey began in Montreal, where Ball and Wattie first crossed paths in the local music scene. Both hailing from different musical backgrounds, they found common ground in their shared love for heavy, experimental music. With the addition of Campbell on drums, Big|Brave was born, and they wasted no time in making their mark on the metal world.

Their debut album, “Feral Verdure,” released in 2014, introduced listeners to Big|Brave’s distinctive sound. With Wattie’s ethereal vocals soaring over Ball’s intricate guitar work and Campbell’s thunderous drumming, the album received critical acclaim for its raw emotion and atmospheric intensity. Songs like “And As The Waters Go” and “For the Sake of the Song” showcased the band’s ability to create expansive soundscapes that captivate and envelop the listener.

As they continued to evolve their sound, Big|Brave released their sophomore album, “Au De La,” in 2015. This album marked a turning point for the band, with longer, more experimental tracks that delved deeper into the realms of drone and post-metal. Tracks like “On the By-and-By and Thereon” and “Look at How the World Has Made a Change” showcased the band’s willingness to push boundaries and experiment with new sounds and textures.

In 2017, Big|Brave released their third album, “Ardor,” which further solidified their reputation as one of the most innovative bands in the metal scene. The album featured a more refined and focused sound, with Wattie’s vocals taking center stage amidst a backdrop of swirling guitars and thunderous drums. Tracks like “Sound” and “Lull” demonstrated the band’s ability to create music that is both heavy and introspective, challenging listeners to explore the depths of their own emotions.

With each release, Big|Brave has continued to defy expectations and carve out their own unique space in the metal landscape. Their live performances are a testament to their raw talent and unbridled passion, with Wattie’s haunting vocals and Ball’s intricate guitar work mesmerizing audiences around the world.

As they look towards the future, Big|Brave shows no signs of slowing down. Their latest album, “Vital,” released in 2021, is a testament to their growth and evolution as a band. With tracks like “Half Breed” and “Of This Ilk,” the band explores new sonic territories while staying true to their signature sound.

In a genre that often thrives on conformity and tradition, Big|Brave stands out as a beacon of innovation and creativity. With their fearless approach to music and their unwavering commitment to pushing boundaries, they have cemented their place as one of the most exciting and influential bands in the metal scene today. As they continue to evolve and experiment, one thing is certain: Big|Brave will always be at the forefront of pushing the boundaries of what metal music can be.