The focal point of our discussion centers on the Belgian rock trio, Brutus, whose distinctive sound defies conventional expectations within the music industry. We delve into the extraordinary phenomenon of a lead vocalist simultaneously commanding complex drum beats, creating a unique sonic experience that challenges and transcends genre boundaries. Throughout our exploration, we will trace Brutus's remarkable journey, from their origins in Leuven to their rapid ascent to international recognition. We shall dissect the intricacies of their musical composition, characterized by a potent blend of math rock, metal, punk, and post-hardcore elements, which culminates in a sound that is both innovative and emotionally resonant. Join us as we unpack the dynamics of this groundbreaking trio and investigate the artistic authenticity that underpins their enduring appeal.

Brutus is een Belgische band uit Leuven, gevormd in 2013. Het trio – bestaande uit Stefanie Mannaerts op drums en vocals, Stijn Vanhoegaerden op gitaar en Peter Mulders op bas – staat bekend om hun explosieve liveshows en emotioneel geladen muziek.

Wat Brutus uniek maakt, is de combinatie van hardcore energie, post-rock sfeer en metal intensiteit, met daarbovenop de krachtige en vaak breekbare zang van Stefanie. Ze zingen over thema’s als innerlijke strijd, verlies, hoop en chaos – en dat alles met een muur van geluid die tegelijk overweldigend én intiem aanvoelt.

Hun debuutalbum Burst (2017) bracht hen op de radar van internationale media, maar het was vooral Nest (2019) en Unison Life (2022) die hun plaats in de alternatieve muziekscene wereldwijd bevestigden.

Brutus is geen band die in een hokje past. Ze zijn ruig én gevoelig, melodieus én brutaal.

In deze aflevering gaan we op zoek naar wat Brutus zo bijzonder maakt – en waarom zoveel fans zich diep geraakt voelen door hun muziek.

The discussion delves into the enigmatic world of the Belgian rock trio Brutus, a band that transcends conventional boundaries within the rock genre. Their unique sound is characterized by an intricate fusion of math rock, metal, progressive rock, punk rock, and post-hardcore elements, creating a sonic landscape that is both intricate and visceral. The lead vocalist, Stephanie Manertz, possesses an extraordinary talent, simultaneously wielding the drumsticks while delivering powerful vocals, thereby creating a captivating paradox that defines the band's identity. This dynamic interplay between rhythm and melody generates an urgency and emotional depth, establishing a sound that is both cohesive and ambitious. Throughout the conversation, we explore Brutus's origins in Leuven, Belgium, tracing their journey from local performances to international acclaim. Their debut album, 'Burst,' recorded in Vancouver, showcases not only their raw energy but also their artistic ambition, as it garnered significant commercial success and critical recognition, including being hailed as one of the best Belgian albums of the decade. The episode invites listeners to appreciate the band's distinctive qualities and the authenticity that underpins their music, urging them to experience the intensity of Brutus's sound firsthand.

Takeaways:

• Brutus, the Belgian rock trio, uniquely combines various genres to create their distinctive sound.
• Stephanie Manertz, as both lead vocalist and drummer, fundamentally shapes the band's identity and musical direction.
• The band's rapid rise to fame demonstrates their ability to resonate with audiences on a profound level.
• Their debut album, 'Burst', achieved significant commercial success, remaining on charts for an impressive 40 weeks.
• The emotional depth in Brutus's lyrics reflects complex themes of conflict and vulnerability.
• Brutus's success exemplifies the power of authenticity and genuine musical expression in today's music industry.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Brutus
• Refused Party Program
• Refused
• Starfucker
• Muss
• Hassell Records
• Sergeant House
• Japan
• Droids
• White Lung