Ian Thornley of Big Wreck discusses producers, guitar solos, and evolving lyrics while maintaining a rock edge.
Canadian classic-rock band Big Wreck is gearing up to release its ninth album, The Rest of the Story, this Friday, with a record launch set to take place at Toronto’s Phoenix Concert Theatre the night before. Co-founding singer and guitarist Ian Thornley recently sat down for a chat with The Globe and Mail to discuss a variety of topics, including producers, guitar solos, and the evolution of his lyrics.
One of the standout tracks on the upcoming album is “Holy Roller,” a song that faced some adjustments during the writing process. Originally about a Catholic priest, Thornley chose to modify the lyrics to create a more family-friendly version after a bandmate raised concerns about the song’s edgy content being inappropriate for younger audiences. When asked whether he feels the need to cater to the sensitivities of listeners, Thornley responded by explaining that his primary focus is to create enjoyable rock ‘n’ roll music, without conforming to any specific expectations or standards. The changes made to “Holy Roller” did not compromise the essence of the song or Thornley’s innate rock ‘n’ roll sensibilities.
Notably, “Holy Roller” features a gripping guitar solo that draws inspiration from the likes of guitar virtuosos such as Eddie Van Halen. Thornley acknowledged the influence of iconic guitarists from past eras on his music, despite not gravitating towards their work during his formative years as a guitarist. He highlighted the intricate guitar work characteristic of that period and credited platforms like YouTube for providing a wealth of resources for aspiring musicians to absorb and integrate into their own playing styles.
Thornley’s approach to guitar solos with Big Wreck has been somewhat unconventional, as the band has often steered clear of extended guitar sections in their music. However, Thornley admitted that he occasionally lets loose on stage, allowing himself to become lost in the moment while performing. This vibrant energy and enthusiasm are evident in his live performances, where he occasionally needs a gentle reminder to stay grounded and maintain a connection with the audience.
The production of Big Wreck’s latest album was helmed by Nick Raskulinecz, who has collaborated with the band in the past. Raskulinecz’s involvement primarily focused on providing a fresh perspective and guiding the band towards a cohesive vision for the record as a whole. Thornley praised Raskulinecz’s knack for proposing innovative ideas that injected new life into the songs, enhancing their overall impact without overshadowing the original creative vision.
Reflecting on his experience working with various producers throughout his career, Thornley highlighted the importance of finding a producer who aligns with the band’s desired sound and style. He fondly recalled his collaboration with producer Garth Richardson on the album “Grace Street,” emphasizing how Richardson’s distinctive touch elevated the record to one of his personal favorites. Thornley acknowledged that while some bands may benefit from a more prescriptive producer who dictates specific creative choices, he values producers who offer fresh perspectives and unconventional ideas to enhance the music-making process.
In essence, Ian Thornley’s unwavering dedication to preserving Big Wreck’s rock ‘n’ roll edge shines through in his approach to songwriting, guitar solos, and working with producers. As the band gears up to launch their latest album, “The Rest of the Story,” fans can expect a blend of electrifying guitar work, insightful lyricism, and a commitment to delivering authentic rock ‘n’ roll music that stays true to their unique sound.