Origins: Bjork began his career drumming for now-legendary SoCal outfit Kyuss, a band he formed with school mates John Garcia (vocals), Nick Oliveri (bass) and future Queens of the Stone Age frontman Josh Homme (guitar). Bjork played on—and contributed significant songwriting to—Kyuss’ first three albums before splitting from the group.
Since: The versatile musician, who also lists lead vocals, lead guitar and bass on his résumé, has played with Fu Manchu, Vista Chino, Mondo Generator and Homme’s Desert Sessions, and has released 13 LPs under his own name.
Legacy: Bjork’s driving drumming style influenced on countless metal and stoner-rock bands over the past 25 years. “Brant brought a true originality to [Kyuss],” The Quietus wrote in 2016. “When he quit … the magic that powered the group’s thunderous style would proceed to dry up overnight … [He was] the band’s true ringleader and possibly the greatest backseat innovator since Ginger Baker.”
Latest: Last month, the 45-year-old Bjork released Mankind Woman, an 11-song slab of heavy blues with psychedelic—and occasionally funky—undertones. From an Obelisk.net review: “[It’s an] easy-flowing LP that discards much of the aggressive edge of [previous albums] in favor of material that is smoother and more laid back.” Expect the Vegas show to center on the new record, though don’t rule out dips into Bjork’s more distant past.
BRANT BJORK with Mezzoa, Stone Deaf. October 11, 8 p.m., $10-$15. Count’s Vamp’d, 702-220-8849.
