Brendon Small: From Home Movies to Metal Mayhem with Metalocalypse’s Dethklok
Metalocalypse’s Brendon Small is a visionary creator, musician, and voice actor. His distinctive humor, music, and storytelling blend has carved a unique path in the entertainment industry. Small is best known for his involvement in popular animated shows like “Home Movies” and “Metalocalypse,” as well as his musical projects Dethklok and Galaktikon. His work continues to leave an indelible mark on animation and metal culture. Check out our interview with Brendon Small below!
Small’s journey began with the animated sitcom “Home Movies.”
From 1999 to 2004, the show, co-created by Small and Loren Bouchard, gained a devoted following due to its improvisational style and unique animation. Small’s involvement in the writing and production of the show was instrumental. However, it was with his creation of “Metalocalypse” in 2006 that Small truly distinguished himself. The animated series, which follows the fictional death metal band Dethklok, features Small’s voice acting, as well as his writing and composition of the music. Fans of the genre and those unfamiliar with it were drawn to the show’s dark comedy and absurd take on the world of metal. The music, performed by Small and collaborator Gene Hoglan, gave rise to the virtual band Dethklok.
Metalocalypse’s Dethklok to debut brand new album for the upcoming film.
Dethklok has become a sensation in its own right and is going on tour with BabyMetal starting August 30th. It enabled Small’s music to reach a wider audience beyond the show’s viewers. Small’s songwriting talent was highlighted in the band’s albums, particularly “The Dethalbum,” which expertly combined heavy riffs with witty, sometimes tongue-in-cheek lyrics. Dethklok’s popularity emphasized Small’s remarkable ability to merge his comedic and musical talents effectively. The show ended in 2013 however, fans have the new feature film, Army of the Doomstar, to look forward to on August 22nd, 2023.
Brendon Small’s solo project, Galaktikon, marked a turning point in his career in 2012.
This concept album and its sequel showcased Small’s versatility. He experimented with a range of musical styles while maintaining his signature humor-infused storytelling. Through Galaktikon, Small transported his listeners into a sci-fi narrative filled with intricate melodies, powerful choruses, and his unmistakable guitar work. Small’s career is a testament to the power of pursuing various creative outlets. He seamlessly traverses between writing, voice acting, music composition, and production, never limiting himself to a single role. Small’s accomplishments demonstrate the boundless possibilities that come with pursuing artistic passions and the drive to break new ground.
Brendon Small has significantly impacted the world of animation and metal culture through his artistic evolution. His work on “Home Movies,” an irreverently charming show, showcases his talent. His metal masterpiece “Metalocalypse” is chaotic and raw, while his genre-defying Galaktikon exemplifies his boundless creativity and drive for artistic exploration. Small’s multifaceted career is a testament to his relentless pursuit of artistic excellence. Read more News on Nerdtropolis and make sure to subscribe to our Channel.
Sean Tajipour
Sean Tajipour is the Founder and Editor of Nerdtropolis and the host of the Moviegoers Society Podcast. He is also a member of the Critics Choice Association. You can follow on Twitter and Instagram @Seantaj.