Battles is a quartet formed by ex-Don Caballero and Storm & Stress member Ian Williams, ex-Helmet and Tomahawk drummer John Stanier, ex-Lynx guitarist Dave Konopa and solo musician Tyondai Braxton (son of Anthony Braxton). All the members bring influences from their previous bands in to Battles’ music as well as new sounds not previously heard in their previous bands. Battles released their first EPs in 2004 and where made into a compilation in 2006 by Warp Records. By this time Battles had a strong cult following and it grew larger when the year 2007 came in. In early 2007 Battles released their single “Atlas” which received positive remarks from press and fans alike. “Atlas” was also voted single of the week on NWE magazine. In May of 2007 Battles released their first full-length album “Mirrored” which reached #70 in the UK charts. The band are having their strongest following ever since their conception touring around the world and receiving positive reviews from many respectable magazines and websites.
Battles’ music is hard to describe. Even though they’re often labeled as a Math Rock band Battles combines many different styles into their sound to make their Math Rock more unique and accessible for a wider audience. Progressive Rock fans looking for innovation or a new sound will definitely enjoy Battles’ music.