Big Red Machine is an American indie folk band that was formed in June 2018 as a collaborative effort between Aaron Dessner and Justin Vernon. Aaron Dessner is the keyboardist for the band The National, and Justin Vernon is the frontman for the band Bon Iver. The band's name was inspired by a song of the same name, which the two musicians had created together for the 2009 Red Hot charity compilation, Dark Was the Night.
Interestingly, the song's title, "Big Red Machine," was actually a reference to the dominant Cincinnati Reds baseball teams of the 1970s, who won the World Series in 1976, the year of Aaron Dessner's birth. However, Justin Vernon misinterpreted the meaning of the title when writing the song's lyrics and believed it was a reference to the heart. This misunderstanding ultimately gave rise to the band's name.
In addition to their musical collaborations, Aaron Dessner and Justin Vernon also launched a music platform called PEOPLE. The duo released four songs exclusively on the website before announcing a self-titled album, which would contain their four PEOPLE tracks. These exclusive songs were later made available on various other streaming services.
Since their formation, Big Red Machine has garnered a devoted fanbase and critical acclaim for their unique sound and evocative lyrics. Their music often features intricate instrumental arrangements and layered vocals that create a lush, immersive listening experience. As a result, they have been praised for their ability to bridge the gap between indie folk and more experimental genres, creating a sound that is both accessible and innovative.
Overall, Big Red Machine's music is a testament to the power of collaboration and the creative potential that can emerge when two talented musicians join forces. Their unique sound and inventive approach to songwriting continue to captivate audiences around the world, making them one of the most exciting and innovative indie folk bands of our time.
