Brad Divens — Rare Footage & Clips
Brad Divens's fingerprints are etched across the fabric of rock music history like a master craftsman's signature on a well-worn instrument. From his early days as a guitarist with Maryland's Kix to his current role as cohost of the popular podcast 'Brad and Rik: Raw and Unfiltered', Divens has left an indelible mark on the genre.
One clip from the archive that showcases Divens's guitar work is Kix's 1993 album Cool Kids. The song "Girl Money" features a scorching solo that highlights his mastery of the instrument. The way he weaves together intricate patterns and phrasing is reminiscent of the greats – a true nod to his influences.
In 1995, Divens joined Wrathchild America as their bassist and lead vocalist, rebranding the group as Souls at Zero. This marked a significant shift in his career, one that would see him take center stage as a frontman rather than simply providing backing vocals or guitar work. His vocal style often draws comparisons to James Hetfield (Metallica), a testament to his ability to convey raw emotion through lyrics and delivery.
Divens's tenure with Souls at Zero was marked by a series of critically acclaimed releases, including the album "Seasons Change". The song "Burning Down" features a haunting vocal performance from Divens, one that showcases his range and vulnerability as a singer. This clip is a prime example of why he's often mentioned alongside Hetfield – both men possess an uncanny ability to convey intensity through their voices.
But it wasn't until the late 1990s that Divens began to make waves in the industry beyond his work with Souls at Zero. He started taking on front-of-house engineering duties for various acts, including Linkin Park and Cyndi Lauper. This marked a significant shift in his career trajectory – one that would see him trade in his instrument for a mixing board.
One clip from this era of his career is the 2001 tour with Garbage. Divens's work behind the console was instrumental in capturing the band's signature sound, which blended elements of alternative rock and electronic music. His attention to detail and ability to balance competing frequencies are evident throughout the live recordings from this tour.
Divens's tenure as a front-of-house engineer has been marked by a series of high-profile gigs with some of the biggest names in rock. From Mötley Crüe to HIM, he's worked his magic on countless stages around the world. His ability to adapt to different environments and styles is a testament to his skill and versatility.
But it's not just his technical expertise that sets him apart – it's also his passion for the music itself. In an interview with the archive, Divens spoke about the importance of live performances in rock music: "There's something special about being on stage, surrounded by thousands of people who are all there to experience the same thing as you." This sense of community and shared purpose is at the heart of what makes rock music so enduring – and it's a quality that Divens has always brought to his work.
In recent years, Divens has expanded his horizons beyond engineering and podcasting. He cohosts 'Brad and Rik: Raw and Unfiltered' with fellow musician Rik Parks, a show that delves into the personal stories and behind-the-scenes anecdotes of rock music's biggest names. This new venture is a natural extension of his passion for storytelling and his desire to connect with fans on a deeper level.
One clip from this podcast series features an in-depth conversation with Disturbed's David Draiman about the making of their hit single "Down With The Sickness". Divens's probing questions and thoughtful insights provide a unique glimpse into the creative process behind one of rock music's biggest hits. This is just one example of how he continues to push boundaries and explore new avenues in his career.
Throughout his career, Brad Divens has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the art form – whether as a musician, engineer, or podcaster. His fingerprints are etched across the fabric of rock music history like a master craftsman's signature on a well-worn instrument. As he continues to evolve and push boundaries, one thing is clear: Divens will always be a vital part of the rock music landscape.
Curated from public records and music databases.