Brutal: The Unstoppable Force of Modern Hard Rock

Brutal is a hard rock powerhouse from Los Angeles, California, known for their aggressive riffs and high-octane live performances. The band achieved mainstream recognition with their 2018 album Concrete Catalyst, which debuted at number 12 on the Billboard 200 chart and was certified gold within a year of its release.

Early career

Formed in 2012, the quartet of vocalist/guitarist Jax Stone, lead guitarist Vince "Viper" Holt, bassist Mara Kline, and drummer Leo Cruz cut their teeth in the competitive dive bars of the Sunset Strip. Their self-released EP, First Blood in 2014, caught the attention of several independent labels, leading to a development deal with Steel Carrot Records in 2015.

Breakthrough

The band's major breakthrough arrived in 2018 after signing with major label imprint Riot Act Records. Their debut full-length, Concrete Catalyst, became a surprise commercial success, driven by relentless touring and explosive radio play for its lead single. The album's raw energy resonated widely, securing a gold certification from the RIAA and solidifying Brutal's place on the modern rock landscape.

Key tracks

Hammer Down — This lead single from Concrete Catalyst became Brutal's first Top 10 hit on the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart.

Ashes to Empire — A fan-favorite anthem known for its intricate dual-guitar solos and a music video that surpassed 50 million views.

No Sanctuary — Featured in the soundtrack for the video game Road Fury 2, introducing the band's hard rock sound to a massive new audience.

Built on Lies — This track from their 2021 sophomore album showcased a more melodic side while maintaining their signature heavy intensity.

Following their breakthrough, Brutal capitalized on their momentum with extensive international tours and a well-received collaboration with veteran producer Nick Raskulinecz on their 2021 follow-up, Ironclad. The album debuted at number 8 on the Billboard 200, proving their staying power beyond a debut sensation. Their recent work includes a featured track on the Thor: Valhalla Rising movie soundtrack and a co-headlining slot on the 2023 "Roadkill Festival" tour across North America.

Fans of Brutal's brand of intense, riff-driven hard rock often also enjoy the sounds of Fever 333, who share a similar explosive blend of rock and social commentary. The classic-meets-modern guitar attack of Black Veil Brides also finds common ground with Brutal's aesthetic. For the unrelenting energy, check out From Ashes To New and their fusion of rock and rap. The raw power of Bad Omens also complements the heavier side of Brutal's catalog.

Brutal's music maintains a strong presence on radio, featured in regular rotation on leading mainstream rock FM stations and dedicated hard rock online radio streams. Their hits are staples on independent music radio stations that champion guitar-driven modern rock, ensuring their anthems reach a broad and passionate audience daily.

Listeners can discover the powerful discography of Brutal by tuning into the hard rock and modern rock radio stations featured right here on onairium.com. Our curated stations regularly play their biggest hits and deep cuts, providing the perfect gateway to experience this dominant force in hard rock music.