BIG|BRAVE Announce New Album in grief or in hope: Hear “the ineptitude for mutual discernment”

Montreal’s critically acclaimed experimental heavy trio, BIG|BRAVE, has officially announced the forthcoming release of their tenth studio album, in grief or in hope, scheduled to arrive on June 12. This highly anticipated record will be distributed via Thrill Jockey, a label renowned for its roster of innovative and boundary-pushing artists. Accompanying the announcement, the band has premiered "the ineptitude for mutual discernment," the lead single offering listeners a first glimpse into the album’s sonic landscape. This news follows the band’s previous release, OST, which garnered significant attention last year, further solidifying BIG|BRAVE’s position as a consistent and evolving force within the global experimental music scene. The new album promises to delve deep into themes of human experience, exploring the intricate interplay between contrasting emotions and universal truths, as articulated by the band members themselves.

The Evolution of BIG|BRAVE: A Decade of Sonic Exploration

BIG|BRAVE, comprised of guitarist and vocalist Robin Wattie, guitarist Mathieu Ball, and now officially joined in the studio by long-time touring bassist Liam Andrews (known for his work with MY DISCO and Aicher), has spent over a decade cultivating a distinct and often challenging musical identity. Formed in Montreal, the band quickly established itself through a compelling blend of drone, post-rock, and minimalist metal, characterized by immense sonic weight, deliberate pacing, and Wattie’s evocative vocal delivery. Their journey from their early independent releases to their current standing as a flagship act for Thrill Jockey reflects a relentless pursuit of artistic integrity and sonic innovation. Each album in their extensive discography has served as a testament to their commitment to pushing the boundaries of heavy music, often employing stark dynamics, extended compositions, and a raw, visceral approach to sound design. Their work is frequently lauded for its emotional depth and the way it harnesses vast sonic spaces to create immersive and often overwhelming experiences for the listener. The announcement of in grief or in hope as their tenth studio album underscores not only their prolific output but also their enduring relevance and continuous artistic growth in an ever-evolving musical landscape. Their consistent critical acclaim points to a band that is not content to rest on past achievements, but rather one that continually seeks new avenues for expression within their established framework.

Crafting the New Sound: An Introspective Journey

For in grief or in hope, Robin Wattie articulated a clear artistic direction, stating a desire to "explore catchy, melodic phrasing weaved throughout the intensity of the instrumentation and drony chord changes." This statement suggests a nuanced evolution in BIG|BRAVE’s sound, potentially incorporating more immediately accessible melodic elements without sacrificing the profound heaviness and intricate textures for which they are renowned. This approach could signify a deliberate attempt to broaden their sonic palette, inviting new listeners while rewarding their dedicated fanbase with sophisticated layers of musicality. The thematic core of the album is equally introspective and universal. Wattie further elaborated on the inspiration behind the record, noting, "All that I could reflect on was grief and hope; death and life; cause and effect; shared experiences of being a human person." These profound philosophical dichotomies are expected to be explored through the band’s characteristic minimalist yet expansive arrangements, with the interplay of dense sonic textures and moments of sparse contemplation. The lyrical content, traditionally delivered with an intense, almost incantatory quality, is anticipated to delve into these themes with a directness that resonates deeply with the human condition, inviting listeners to confront their own experiences of sorrow, resilience, and the cyclical nature of existence. The addition of Liam Andrews, a long-time touring bassist, into the studio for the recording process marks a significant development. Andrews’ established reputation in the experimental and heavy music scenes, particularly with MY DISCO, brings a distinct rhythmic and textural sensibility that is expected to further enrich BIG|BRAVE’s already intricate sound, potentially adding new dimensions to their low-end frequencies and overall sonic architecture. His integration into the core recording unit signifies a deepened collaborative dynamic, allowing for a more cohesive and refined realization of the band’s vision.

"The Ineptitude for Mutual Discernment": A First Glimpse

The lead single, "the ineptitude for mutual discernment," has been described as a "glitchy, hypnotic dirge." This characterization offers intriguing insights into the album’s overall sonic direction. The term "dirge" suggests a slow, mournful, and weighty composition, aligning with BIG|BRAVE’s established predilection for unhurried, monumental soundscapes. The descriptor "hypnotic" points towards repetitive, trance-inducing elements, possibly achieved through sustained drones, cyclical guitar patterns, and the measured, deliberate rhythms that are a hallmark of their style. The inclusion of "glitchy" indicates a potential integration of subtle electronic textures, sonic aberrations, or manipulated sounds that could add a layer of unsettling modernism to their otherwise organic instrumentation. This could manifest as distorted samples, fragmented percussive elements, or digitally processed guitar tones that introduce an element of controlled chaos into their carefully constructed sound. Such an approach would align with Wattie’s stated aim of weaving "catchy, melodic phrasing" into intense instrumentation, where the "glitchy" aspects might provide a stark counterpoint or an unexpected textural surprise. The title itself, "the ineptitude for mutual discernment," suggests themes of misunderstanding, miscommunication, or a fundamental inability to connect and comprehend one another. This thematic depth is consistent with Wattie’s broader reflections on shared human experiences and the challenges inherent in navigating interpersonal relationships. Musically, one might anticipate the track to build slowly, employing BIG|BRAVE’s signature dynamic shifts – from near-silent contemplation to overwhelming crescendos of distorted guitars and thundering percussion – to mirror the emotional weight of its conceptual underpinnings. The track is likely to be an immersive experience, demanding active listening and rewarding patience with its unfolding layers of sound and meaning.

Thrill Jockey: A Home for Innovation

Thrill Jockey Records, the Chicago-based independent label founded in 1992 by former Matador Records publicist Bettina Richards, has long been a bastion for experimental and avant-garde music. With a commitment to fostering artists who push genre boundaries and explore unconventional sonic territories, Thrill Jockey has built a formidable reputation as a home for innovative sound. The label’s roster boasts an eclectic array of artists spanning post-rock, electronic, jazz, folk, and various forms of experimental music, including iconic acts like Tortoise, The Sea and Cake, Liturgy, and High Places, among many others. This diverse yet cohesive artistic philosophy makes Thrill Jockey an ideal partner for BIG|BRAVE, whose unique blend of drone, heavy rock, and atmospheric experimentalism aligns perfectly with the label’s ethos. The relationship between BIG|BRAVE and Thrill Jockey has been cultivated over several albums, beginning with their highly acclaimed 2016 release, Ardor, and continuing through subsequent works like A Gaze Among Them (2019), Vital (2021), and nature morte (2023). This enduring partnership signifies a mutual respect and shared artistic vision, allowing BIG|BRAVE the creative freedom to explore their evolving sound without compromise. For an experimental band, working with a label like Thrill Jockey provides not only distribution and promotional support but also access to a dedicated audience that values artistic integrity and sonic exploration. The label’s consistent curatorial approach has earned it a loyal following, ensuring that new releases from its artists, such as in grief or in hope, are met with significant anticipation within the independent music community.

A Decade of Sonic Exploration: BIG|BRAVE’s Chronology

BIG|BRAVE’s discography is a testament to their steady evolution and consistent artistic output since their formation in the early 2010s. While their earliest recordings might have been more independently circulated, their official studio album chronology paints a picture of deliberate and continuous development.

• 2013: Feral Verdure – The band’s debut, setting the foundational elements of their heavy, minimalist sound.
• 2015: Southern Light – Further refining their approach, showcasing a growing mastery of dynamics and atmosphere.
• 2016: Ardor – Their first release on Thrill Jockey, marking a significant step in their career and garnering wider critical attention. This album firmly established their signature sound and thematic depth.
• 2017: Ardor (Re-issue / Expanded Edition) – Demonstrating the label’s belief in the album’s enduring quality.
• 2019: A Gaze Among Them – A critically acclaimed effort that saw them continue to explore themes of identity and human connection through their expansive sound.
• 2021: Vital – Pushing their sound into even more extreme and resonant territories, earning accolades for its raw power and emotional intensity.
• 2022: Leaving None But Small Birds – A collaborative album with The Body, showcasing their adaptability and willingness to engage in cross-pollination with other heavy music innovators.
• 2023: nature morte – A powerful and evocative record that continued to refine their unique blend of drone, post-metal, and avant-garde rock, further solidifying their critical standing.
• 2023: OST – Released later in the year, this project served as a powerful and immersive sonic experience, indicating a prolific period for the band.
• June 12, 2024: in grief or in hope – The forthcoming tenth studio album, promising to build upon their extensive legacy while introducing new melodic and thematic explorations.

This consistent output over a relatively short period for a band of their genre highlights their dedication and creative drive. Each album has been met with anticipation and critical discourse, establishing BIG|BRAVE as a cornerstone of contemporary experimental heavy music.

Lyrical and Conceptual Framework: The Core of in grief or in hope

The conceptual framework for in grief or in hope is deeply rooted in universal human experiences, as expressed by Robin Wattie. The album title itself encapsulates the central dichotomy: "grief or hope." This suggests an exploration of life’s fundamental polarities—sorrow and optimism, despair and resilience, loss and renewal. These are not merely abstract concepts but are intrinsically linked to the human condition, making the album’s themes immediately relatable to a broad audience, regardless of their familiarity with BIG|BRAVE’s challenging musical style. Wattie’s reflection on "death and life; cause and effect; shared experiences of being a human person" further enriches this thematic tapestry. It implies a narrative arc that moves beyond individual introspection to encompass the broader, interconnected fabric of human existence. The album may delve into the cyclical nature of life and death, the consequences of actions, and the profound empathy that arises from shared vulnerability. Given BIG|BRAVE’s history of crafting immersive and emotionally resonant soundscapes, these themes are expected to be explored with a profound sense of gravity and introspection. The band’s music often creates a space for contemplation, allowing the listener to sink into the sonic textures and confront the underlying emotional currents. The interplay between intense instrumentation and potentially "catchy, melodic phrasing" could serve to underscore these dualities, with moments of stark beauty contrasting with passages of immense sonic weight, mirroring the inherent complexities of grief and hope. The choice of such profound themes for their tenth album suggests a mature artistic perspective, a band reflecting on a decade of creative output and the myriad experiences that shape the human journey.

Decoding the Tracklist: A Narrative Arc?

The provided tracklist for in grief or in hope offers intriguing clues about the album’s potential narrative flow and thematic progression. While track titles alone cannot fully convey the musical or lyrical content, they often serve as signposts for the artist’s intentions.

1. "what may be the kindest way to leave": This opening title immediately sets a melancholic and reflective tone, suggesting themes of departure, finality, and the ethical considerations surrounding difficult goodbyes. It could act as a gentle, albeit heavy, introduction to the album’s exploration of grief and transition.
2. "a shape of shame": Following the opener, this title introduces a more visceral and introspective element, hinting at internal struggle, self-perception, and perhaps the burdens of regret or unaddressed emotions. Musically, this might translate into a more intense or unsettling passage.
3. "the ineptitude for mutual discernment": The lead single, as discussed, points to themes of misunderstanding and failed connection. Positioned early in the album, it could serve as a central thesis, exploring the difficulties inherent in human interaction and empathy.
4. "holding tongue": This title evokes a sense of silence, suppression, or unspoken truths. It might explore the consequences of withholding communication or the internal conflict that arises from unexpressed thoughts and feelings, potentially building on the themes of discernment.
5. "verdure": A striking contrast to the preceding titles, "verdure" refers to lush green vegetation. This word injects a sudden note of life, growth, and natural beauty. It could represent a shift towards hope, renewal, or a moment of respite amidst the heavier themes, acting as a crucial turning point or a palate cleanser.
6. "skin ripper": This title immediately brings back an element of visceral intensity, perhaps signaling pain, aggression, or a tearing away of old layers. It stands in stark contrast to "verdure," suggesting that moments of peace are often juxtaposed with stark realities or internal turmoil.
7. "an uttering of antipathy": This phrase denotes an expression of strong dislike or opposition. Placed late in the album, it could signify a confrontation, a release of pent-up negative emotion, or a moment of harsh truth, perhaps related to the earlier themes of discernment and shame.
8. "in grief or in hope": The album’s title track, concluding the record, offers a powerful synthesis of the entire journey. As the final statement, it suggests an ultimate contemplation of the album’s core duality. It may not offer a definitive resolution but rather a profound acceptance of these intertwined states of being, leaving the listener to ponder the enduring human capacity for both sorrow and resilience.

This sequence suggests a thoughtful progression from introspection and difficulty towards moments of unexpected beauty, only to return to challenging realities before culminating in a holistic embrace of life’s fundamental paradoxes.

Anticipation and Impact: A New Chapter

The announcement of in grief or in hope generates significant anticipation within the experimental music community and beyond. As their tenth studio album, it represents a substantial milestone for BIG|BRAVE, cementing their legacy as one of the most consistent and artistically daring bands in contemporary heavy music. Industry observers and critics often laud BIG|BRAVE for their unwavering commitment to their unique sound, which defies easy categorization and challenges conventional notions of genre. Their ability to evoke profound emotional responses through minimalist yet immensely powerful instrumentation has earned them a dedicated global following. The release of a new album from such a prolific and respected act is always a moment of reflection and excitement, signaling not only a continuation of their journey but also a potential evolution of their craft.

The implications of in grief or in hope extend beyond the band itself. In an era where music consumption is increasingly fragmented, the sustained artistic vision and rigorous output of bands like BIG|BRAVE serve as a crucial anchor for the independent music ecosystem. Their consistent ability to deliver critically acclaimed work on a reputable label like Thrill Jockey demonstrates the viability and importance of supporting artists who prioritize artistic integrity over commercial trends. This album is expected to further solidify their influence on emerging experimental artists, showcasing how a deep commitment to sound and thematic exploration can lead to a sustained and impactful career. It also reinforces Montreal’s reputation as a vibrant hub for innovative music, contributing to the city’s rich cultural tapestry. As the release date approaches, fans and critics alike will be keen to experience how in grief or in hope navigates its stated themes and whether it continues BIG|BRAVE’s tradition of pushing the sonic envelope while maintaining their signature emotional depth. The lead single "the ineptitude for mutual discernment" offers a tantalizing preview, suggesting an album that is both familiar in its intensity and innovative in its approach to melody and texture.

in grief or in hope is set to be released on June 12 via Thrill Jockey. Pre-orders are currently available, providing an opportunity for listeners to secure their copy of what promises to be another pivotal release in BIG|BRAVE’s distinguished discography.