Dreadnaught

Dreadnaught is an Australian heavy metal band from Melbourne, active since 1992. The group is associated with hard rock, progressive rock, groove metal and progressive metal, and its line-up includes Greg Trull and Andrew “Squiz” Squires. It releases through Roadrunner Records, including the Roadrunner Australia subsidiary Dark Carnival Records.

Early releases and label history

Before signing to Dark Carnival Records in 1999, Dreadnaught self-finances and releases Body.Blood.Skin.Mind in 1996 and Idiosyncrasy in 1998. After that signing, the band releases Down To Zero in 1999, which gains critical attention and receives airplay in the UK, Europe and the US. The album is also issued in the US and Europe through The Music Cartel.

In 2002, Dreadnaught releases the EP One Piece Missing, again through Dark Carnival. Its lead track, “Pushed to the Limit”, appears on high rotation on Triple J, Australia’s national rock radio station.

Later albums and style

The band follows with Dirty Music in 2005, a recording made up of 11 songs and described through its titles and presentation as a heavier and more versatile step in its catalogue. In 2006, Roadrunner Australia issues Dirty Music 2, a repackaged double-CD edition that includes different artwork, previously unreleased material from Body.Blood.Skin.Mind, Idiosyncrasy and the Dirty Music sessions, plus videos for “Cut Throat Blues” and “Pushed To The Limit”.

In May 2008, Matt Racovalis joins on drums, adding a stronger metal edge and technical ability to the band’s writing. The material written in 2008 marks a return to its early thrash metal roots and is presented as its heaviest release to date. The self-titled Dreadnaught album follows in 2009.

Live work and reputation

Dreadnaught builds its reputation through headlining tours, support slots with Testament, Strapping Young Lad, Nickelback, Nevermore, Paradise Lost and Cathedral, and appearances at major Australian metal and rock festivals. It is described as one of Australia’s hardest-working live acts.