Music has always been a tool for expression. Some bands sing about love. Others sing about life. But Brass Against sings about change. This band uses the power of music to speak out against injustice. Their sound is bold and unique. Their message is clear. Let’s learn more about this powerful group.
Who Is Brass Against?
Brass Against is not your typical band. They are a collective of musicians. They mix brass instruments with rock and hip-hop. Their music pays tribute to legendary bands like Rage Against the Machine, Tool, and Soundgarden. But they don’t just cover songs—they make them their own.
Key Facts About Brass Against:
- Formed: 2017 in New York City
- Founder: Brad Hammonds
- Style: Brass + Rock + Protest
- Known For: Powerful covers and political messages
- Lead Vocalists: Sophia Urista (original), then rotating artists
The band started with a simple idea: revive protest music. They wanted to inspire people to take action. And they did it with horns, drums, bass, and bold vocals.
The Unique Sound of Brass Against
What makes Brass Against different? It’s the sound. Most rock bands use guitar and drums. Brass Against adds trumpets, trombones, baritone saxophones, and tubas. This gives their music a deep, powerful feel.
Elements That Define Their Sound:
- Brass Instruments: Trumpets, trombones, and saxophones lead the melody.
- Heavy Drums and Bass: These give power and rhythm.
- Dynamic Vocals: Each song has strong, emotional singing.
- Live Energy: Their shows feel alive and raw.
This mix of instruments helps them stand out. It also lets them add fresh life to older songs.
Why Brass Against Matters
Brass Against is more than music. They speak up for justice, equality, and truth. Each song is a call to action. They cover songs that deal with police brutality, war, corruption, and oppression. They believe music can spark change.
Their Mission Includes:
- Raising Awareness: They sing about real-world problems.
- Inspiring Action: They want fans to think and act.
- Giving Voice: They support movements like Black Lives Matter.
- Breaking Norms: They show that brass can rock.
Their songs often include speeches, chants, and strong lyrics. This makes their message even louder.
Popular Songs and Covers
Brass Against is mostly known for their covers. But they make each one unique. Their brass-led versions add weight and drama. They’ve covered many powerful songs that fit their mission.
Top Brass Against Covers:
- “Wake Up” by Rage Against the Machine
- A wake-up call to modern society.
- Their version brings deep brass power.
- “Killing In The Name” by Rage Against the Machine
- A protest against racism and police violence.
- Their performance is loud and raw.
- “Know Your Enemy” by Rage Against the Machine
- A cry against blind obedience.
- Their brass section adds a new edge.
- “My Own Summer (Shove It)” by Deftones
- A heavy, moody rock anthem.
- Their version keeps the energy high.
- “Lateralus” by Tool
- A complex song about growth and change.
- Their cover is rich and layered.
Their performances are not only musical—they are emotional and visual. Crowds feel their passion.
Original Music by Brass Against
While known for covers, Brass Against has also started making original songs. Their self-titled debut album features original work. These tracks still carry the same bold message.
Notable Originals:
- “Pull the Trigger”
- A powerful song about taking control.
- Strong vocals and brass fire.
- “Umbra”
- A slower, darker tune.
- It dives deep into human emotion.
- “Walk the Line”
- Not a Johnny Cash cover.
- A bold statement on society’s limits.
Their original music proves they are more than just a cover band. They have a voice of their own.
Brass Against’s Live Performances
Brass Against shines on stage. They bring energy, passion, and power. Their shows feel like protests with music. The band members move, shout, and play with heart. The crowd often chants along.
What to Expect at a Show:
- Loud, brassy versions of protest songs
- Powerful lead vocals
- Political and social themes
- Emotional speeches
- Crowd interaction
Their concerts are not just for fun. They are for thinking, feeling, and sometimes, marching.
Controversy and Public Attention
In 2021, Brass Against made headlines. During a live show, lead singer Sophia Urista shocked fans with an act on stage. It caused backlash and media buzz. The band apologized, and Urista stepped back from live shows.
While the act was controversial, it also brought attention. People who had never heard of Brass Against now knew their name. They turned that moment into fuel for their mission.
The Band Members
Brass Against has a flexible lineup. Many musicians come and go. This gives the band a fresh sound at each show. Despite changes, their passion stays strong.
Core Members Include:
- Brad Hammonds – Guitar and Founder
- Andrew Gutauskas – Baritone Sax
- Natasha DiMarco – Trombone
- Mariel Bildsten – Trombone
- Chrissy Loftus – Trumpet
- Sophia Urista (former) – Lead Vocals
- Guest Vocalists: Liza Colby, Samuel Hope, and more
They often feature new vocalists. This keeps their style evolving.
Brass Against and Activism
Music is their tool. But activism is their goal. Brass Against has performed at rallies, marches, and protests. They support causes with more than just words.
Causes They Support:
- Racial Justice
- Police Reform
- Climate Change Awareness
- LGBTQ+ Rights
- Anti-War Movements
They use their platform to bring people together. They believe music can create change.
How to Support Brass Against
Brass Against is an independent band. They rely on fans to grow. You can support them in many ways.
Ways to Support:
- Buy Their Music: Support their albums and singles online.
- Attend a Show: Feel their power live.
- Follow on Social Media: Stay updated and share their message.
- Buy Merch: T-shirts, posters, and more help fund the band.
- Stream and Share: Spread their sound on platforms like Spotify and YouTube.
Every action helps them keep playing and protesting.
Why Brass Against Is Important Today
We live in a time of change. Many feel unheard. Brass Against gives voice to those people. Their music reminds us that protest is not just in the streets—it can live on stage.
They prove that instruments like trumpets and trombones can be fierce. They show that covers can be fresh. They remind us that music still matters.
Final Thoughts
Brass Against is not just a band. They are a movement. They are loud, bold, and unafraid. Their music forces us to listen—and to act. They mix the old with the new. They mix music with meaning.
If you love bands with a message, give them a listen. If you believe music can change the world, support them. Brass Against stands for something—and that makes them more than just musicians.
