Lightning bolt Members, Gear & Sound

Lightning Bolt is an experimental noise rock duo hailing from Providence, Rhode Island, known for their intense and chaotic live performances. Formed in the mid-'90s, the band consists of Brian Chippendale (drums, vocals) and Brian Gibson (bass). Their music spans genres such as noise rock, math rock, and punk, often characterized by a blend of technical musicianship and raw, unfiltered energy. Initially a trio, the group solidified its lineup as a duo after the departure of original member Hisham Baroocha. Lightning Bolt gained a cult following through their relentless touring and influential albums like Wonderful Rainbow.

Lightning Bolt's sound is a visceral assault, marked by distorted, chaotic bass lines and frenetic drumming that push the boundaries of conventional rock. The sonic character is aggressive and raw, with a primal edge that captivates and overwhelms. Gibson's bass, often processed through an array of effects like the Boss OC-2 Octave Pedal and Boss ODB-3 Bass OverDrive, delivers a guttural and unearthly tone that forms the backbone of their sound. Meanwhile, Chippendale's drumming, paired with his vocals delivered through a makeshift microphone setup, adds a layer of chaotic energy. The combination of unrelenting rhythms and dense, distorted textures creates a soundscape that is both hypnotic and explosive, making use of minimal gear to achieve maximum impact.