Big Wreck has long been a favorite on The Prog Report – a hard rock band that is able to infuse elements of prog, whether it is through stellar musicianship, long tracks, or the willingness to be adventurous and risk-taking. Led by multitalented vocalist/guitarist/songwriter Ian Thornley, the Canadian band has maintained a reputation for pushing themselves creatively with each release. What began as another series of EPs with 2023’s 6-song EP ‘Pages,’ evolved into a cohesive, full length statement with ‘The Rest of the Story’. Ian Thornley talks about his in a recent interview with The Prog Report.
If ‘Pages’ leaned into a slicker, 80s-inspired production style, ‘The Rest of the Story’ goes in a more is raw and immediate approach that highlights the band’s chemistry and Thornley’s unfiltered energy. The result is one of Big Wreck’s most direct and hard hitting records to date, a set of songs that balance muscle with melody, power with precision.
The album opens with “Staff Party,” a sprawling, dynamic track that reminds listeners that Big Wreck still carry a touch of progressive rock DNA. It’s filled with shifting grooves and inventive guitar textures, setting the tone for the diversity that follows. “Holy Roller” offers something completely unexpected from the group, a fast, aggressive rocker that wouldn’t feel out of place on an early Van Halen or Winger record, complete with a blistering solo that showcases Thornley’s impeccable chops.
“Believer” is classic Big Wreck, a tight, riff driven anthem with a huge chorus and one of the album’s most memorable guitar moments. The single edits the solo (why?), so make sure you hear the full version. It recalls one of the band’s signature tracks “Ghosts,” perfectly encapsulating everything fans love about the band: heaviness, melody, and musicianship in perfect balance. “Around” takes a different turn as a track produced with a deliberate pop-oriented feel, without losing the band’s signature sophistication. Teh hook and harmonies are too good to be ignored. It’s one of the album’s highlights and proof that Thornley’s songwriting instincts are as sharp as ever.
Elsewhere, Big Wreck venture into straight acoustic territory with the delightful “Laws of Man” before flexing their heavier side with the groove laden “Dog with a Gun,” and the driving “Escaping in Place.” Each song feels purposeful and alive, carrying the raw energy that runs through the entire record. The album concludes with the dramatic and uplifting “Hills,” where Thornley’s vocals simply shine.
With ‘The Rest of the Story,’ Big Wreck continue to evolve while staying true to what’s made them one of rock’s most consistently compelling acts. Simply put, Big Wreck has yet to release an album that is anything other than outstanding and this album feels like both a continuation and a culmination, a record that bridges the exploratory spirit of their EP series with the depth and ambition of their classic albums. Ian Thornley once again proves why he remains one of rock’s most underrated talents, a gifted guitarist, a soulful vocalist, and a songwriter who knows exactly how to balance grit with grace.
Released on. Oct. 24th. 2025
The Rest of the Story Track Listing:
1. Staff Party
2. Holy Roller
3. Believer
4. Short Bangs
5. Out of Range
6. Around
7. Laws of Man
8. Dog with a Gun
9. Escaping in Place
10. Labour Day
11. Hills
Ian Thornley: Lead vocals, lead guitar, keyboards
Dave McMillan: Bass guitar, backing vocals
Chris Caddell: Rhythm guitar, backing vocals
Sekou Lumumba: Drums
