The focal point of our discourse centers on the Belgian band Wallace Vanborn, whose journey encapsulates the evolution of an ensemble marked by a distinctive blend of stoner rock and electronic influences. We meticulously examine their trajectory from their formation in 2005, through their early releases and notable live performances, which garnered them the moniker "Plett Wallace," a term that eloquently conveys the intensity of their shows. The discussion further delves into their discography, highlighting the significant milestones of chart performance, particularly the remarkable ascent of their second album, "Lions, Liars, Guns and God," which peaked at number 16 on the Flemish charts. Through this analysis, we not only illuminate the band's artistic identity but also consider the implications of their commercial successes and fluctuations over nearly two decades. Ultimately, our exploration offers a nuanced perspective on what constitutes success in the music industry, particularly for bands that navigate the intricate landscapes of artistic integrity and audience engagement.

Who is

In this episode, we crank up the volume for Wallace Vanborn — the powerhouse trio from Ghent known for their heavy riffs, groovy rhythms, and no-nonsense attitude. Dubbed The Goblin King of Instrumental Riff Rock, Wallace Vanborn blends stoner rock, sludge, and alternative vibes into a sound that’s unmistakably their own.

We’ll explore the band’s journey from underground stages to international tours, dig into albums like Free Blank Shots, The Orb We Absorb, and A Scalp For The Tribe, and reflect on their raw energy, tight musicianship, and unapologetic style.

Expect dirty guitar tones, punchy drums, and bass lines that hit you in the gut — plus stories from fans, live reviews, and what makes Wallace Vanborn one of Belgium’s best-kept musical secrets.

The discussion centers around the Belgian band Wallace Vanborn, a group that has garnered attention for their compelling live performances and unique sound that fuses elements of stoner rock and electronica. Formed in 2005 in Ghent, a city notable for its vibrant cultural scene, Wallace Vanborn quickly established themselves with their debut EP, 'I Am Hell'. This early release set the stage for their participation in prestigious music contests such as Humo's Rock Rally, which helped propel them into the national spotlight. Their trajectory showcases a path marked by strategic engagements within the music industry, including national radio support that contributed to their growing reputation and fan base. Over the years, Wallace Vanborn has released several albums, each reflecting their artistic evolution and commitment to their genre while maintaining a distinct identity that resonates with their audience.

Takeaways:

• Wallace Vanborn emerged from Ghent, Belgium in 2005, establishing themselves in a vibrant musical landscape.
• Their early EP, titled 'I Am Hell', effectively showcased their intense sound and set the stage for future releases.
• The band's significant participation in Humo's Rock Rally in 2008 greatly enhanced their visibility within the Belgian music scene.
• With their second album, 'Lions, Liars, Guns and God', they experienced a remarkable surge in popularity, peaking at number 16 on the Flemish charts.
• Recording their third album at the iconic Rancho de la Luna studio in California signified a strategic artistic alignment with stoner rock heritage.
• The trajectory of Wallace Vanborn illustrates the complexities of maintaining a band over nearly two decades in an evolving music industry.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Wallace Vanborn
• Humo's Rock Rally
• Studio Brussel
• East Records
• Rancho de la Luna
• Queens of the Stone Age
• Eagles of Death Metal