Brave - Passages EP
  Genre: Progressive Rock/Metal/Folk
  Release Date: 2004
  Label: Unsigned
  Band Web Site:

Another band that is labeled in the “progressive rock and metal” genre, yet defies categorical description is the Dale City, Virginia-based outfit known as Brave. Formed in 1996, and originally under the name Arise From Thorns, this eclectic band was started by the brother and sister team of Scott Loose on guitars and Michelle Loose on vocals and keyboards. The pair was eventually joined by drummer Trevor Schrotz. Arise From Thorns recorded their self-titled debut album in 1997, and followed up with the sophomore effort Before An Audience Of Stars in 1999 (the album was re-released in 2001 with bonus tracks). The next release was Waist Deep In Dark Waters in 2001, which saw the band change their name to Brave. Eventually the Brave lineup was rounded out by bassist Ben Kelly and violinist Suvo Sur, and they would release the full-length Searching For The Sun in 2002. In the past ten years Brave has built a reputation as one of the most original and popular bands in the DC area hard rock and metal scene. To keep their loyal fans satiated until their next full-length effort, Brave release the five-song EP Passages in 2004.

The EP opens up with “Words," a track which is a perfect introduction to the Brave musical universe for anyone who is unfamiliar with their work. Melodic and folksy progressive metal with a little kick in the ass, the sweet song of Suvo Sur’s violin, and the heavenly vocals of Michelle Loose.

“Broken” is a brief romantic plea punctuated by the heartfelt vocals of Michelle and some exquisite backing guitars. A perfect lead-in as it segues seamlessly into the upcoming track.

“Don’t Go Away” is another heart-wrenching track featuring more passionate vocal work with occasional blasts of punchy guitars and the songbird-like violin completing the recipe. In the middle of the track the mood changes as we get into some very headbangable riffs and the angelic pleas of Michelle Loose become even more charged, but do not become overpowering. Another amazing track.

The next track, “Passages," has a great ability to mess with your mind because it begins, stops, begins, stops, begins, stops…your patience gets tested! Begin already! But relax friend, your patience will be rewarded as the sweet harmonies fill your ears…ahh…that voice! That gentle guitar! The soothing violins…pure musical heaven punctuated by subtle keys and some great percussive touches by drummer Trevor Schrotz. Things change mid-track and soon you may get the urge to Riverdance…but then you’d just look silly. One kick ass folk metal epic!

“Trapped Inside (2004)” is a re-recording of a track originally heard on their previous release Searching For The Sun, so it may sound very familiar to those who own the album, but for those unfamiliar with the song…it’s a straightforward and catchy folk metal stomp which is a cry for freedom for us all who are slaves to our daily jobs and daily lives. This song deserves some serious airplay.

One listen to this EP is all you need to see that Brave is very gifted in delivering a unique mix of progressive metal, folk, and even a hint of Celtic music in their signature sound. To pull that off they would need a diverse and skilled group of musicians, and that they have in spades. Drummer Trevor Schrotz goes all over his kit with his array of diverse patterns and beats. Bassist Ben Kelly plays great licks, and guitarist Scott Loose shows off some cool heavy riffs and beautiful melodic runs on the six-string. Violinist Suvo Sur puts on an awesome performance on this album as his work really sets this band apart from their brethren. Last but definitely not least, while Michelle Loose plays some nice keys throughout the EP, it’s with her oh-so-sweet vocals that she really flexes her musical muscle. Angelic, heartfelt, emotional, tear jerking, passionate…I could go on forever. Her performance needs to be heard to be believed.

Brave is truly another band which is setting their own rules and raising the bar in the progressive metal scene with their folk-flavored sound. Judging by a recent performance I caught of the band in the DC area, they also seem to really pack in the crowds. After seeing them perform and listening to Passages, I can see why! Do yourself a favor and buy this EP…and don’t stop there! Buy all of their albums! Why? Don’t just stand there and ask questions…do it! You’ll thank me later!

Review written by: Matt B.       
Date: March 7, 2007
Rating: 5 stars out of 5