Big Wreck Returns with Powerful New Album The Rest of the Story
Canadian rock veterans Big Wreck have unleashed their eighth studio album, The Rest of the Story, marking their heaviest musical offering since their 1997 debut In Loving Memory Of. The band, fronted by guitarist and vocalist Ian Thornley, is currently preparing to support alternative rock group Live on the cross-country Like A Rollin' Thunder Tour 2026.
A Return to 1990s Grunge-Inspired Power
From the opening track Staff Party, the album delivers a pummeling guitar riff that sets the tone for the entire record. The 11-track collection channels the raw energy of 1990s grunge giants like Alice In Chains and Soundgarden, showcasing the band's evolution while staying true to their hard rock roots.
This album represents a clinic in hard, heavy rock played by genuine veteran musicians, with Thornley's guitar work complemented by Dave McMillan's formidable bass lines and Sekou Lumumba's relentless drumming. The singles Believer and Holy Roller demonstrate that Big Wreck remains at the peak of their creative powers.
The Making of a Heavy Rock Masterpiece
According to Thornley, the band invested significant time during the demo phase to refine lyrics, arrangements, and sonic direction before entering the studio. "We booked two weeks for bass and drums but, believe it or not, Dave did all the bass parts in one day," Thornley revealed. "It's a testament to the guys' playing that they can nail the parts and instinctively know what we are going for."
Interestingly, Holy Roller began as what Thornley described as a "bit of a joke" and "musical goof take." Despite his initial doubts, band members McMillan and Lumumba immediately recognized the track's potential. "Once we were committed, I had to go all-in and pulled out every goofy '80s guitar trick that I know," Thornley admitted. "Sometimes, you have to remind yourself that rock 'n' roll has to be fun too."
Tour Preparations and Setlist Challenges
As Big Wreck prepares to open for Live across Canada, one of their biggest challenges involves crafting a setlist that balances new material with fan favorites. With a dedicated following expecting to hear classics like Albatross and Too Far Gone, the band must carefully consider their limited stage time.
"There are valid arguments for stacking the set with singles, blending tracks from across the career or pushing the new album, but this is Live's tour," Thornley explained. "I think we are probably getting around 50 minutes, so I'm aiming for a lot of stuff that people know to be sure the audience is well warmed up for the headliners."
A Band Reinvigorated
Big Wreck's current musical resurgence comes after Thornley put the band on hiatus in 2003 to pursue his self-titled project, only to return to the Big Wreck banner in 2010. The reunion was driven by Thornley's desire to create music with this specific group of musicians.
"I just don't do the five-year plan and prefer to just focus on what's in front of me," Thornley said regarding the band's future. "I know that I have another few records worth of songs demoed and ready to go. When the time comes to make another album, we will hone in on the best ones, make a record and tour."
Now playing at the peak of their skills, Big Wreck has successfully adapted to the changing music industry landscape while maintaining their signature sound. The band's ability to evolve while delivering powerful rock music ensures their continued relevance in today's musical landscape.
