Great Big Things

The story of Great Big Things begins in Lincoln, NE. Founding members, Blair Hillman and Chris Bradley, met in the heartland capital in 2000 while attending The University of Nebraska-Lincoln. The two performed in the alt-rock band Maggie until 2005 when they heard California calling. Within the first year of California living, Hillman and Bradley met bassist Xavier Cabrera and formed Great Big Things. The three, along with drummer Zac Clements, created a sound that ventured away from alt/pop-rock and flowed more towards melody, rhythm, and lyrics of a "swankier" variety. Bradley's melodic keyboards along with Cabrera's tight, rhythmic bass created a canvas for Hillman to paint his clever lyrics.
Classical guitar virtuoso, Kevin Ayers, was later added as lead guitarist and David Toyos replaced Clements behind the trap set. With this lineup, the group has a great dynamic that shows through its genuine sound. Each member brings their own flavor and musical influences, but main influences include The Beatles, Tom Petty, Spoon, Bob Dylan and Van Morrison. The most common quote heard at a Great Big Things show: "I love your sound, but I can't put my finger on who you sound like." Hearing this makes Great Big Things think it may be on to something.