Draft:Michael Gross

Michael Morgan Gross (born June 11, 1981) is an American singer-songwriter, musician, and producer from Utah. He is best known for his involvement in a variety of indie rock and alternative music projects, including The Brobecks, Let's Become Actors, Michael Gross and the Statuettes, and his most recent project, Whisperhawk]. His eclectic musical style blends elements of pop, rock, and folk, and he has earned recognition for his emotive songwriting, distinctive voice, and ability to cross genres.

Early life and musical beginnings

Michael Gross was born and raised in Utah, where he developed an early interest in music. He attended junior high and/or high school with individuals that became some of his closest friends and first bandmates. Drawing inspiration from a range of artists spanning rock, pop, and folk, Gross began honing his craft as a self-taught musician. Over time, he became known for his ability to blend catchy melodies with introspective lyrics, leading him to form several musical projects that would gain regional and, later, national attention.

Musical career

The Brobecks

In the early 2000s, Gross became a member of the indie-pop group The Brobecks, a band known for its catchy melodies and upbeat style. Founded by Gross and his high school friends Dallon Weekes, Matt Glass, and Brian Zymanski, the band gained a following for its quirky, energetic sound and poignant lyrics. Gross's involvement in The Brobecks allowed him to experiment with various musical influences, from the pop-driven hooks to more melancholic, introspective moments.

The Brobecks achieved moderate success in the indie music scene, with Gross contributing as one of the primary songwriters and as well a vocalist alongside Dallon Weekes. The band's work was recognized for its DIY ethos, self-released albums, and their viral presence. on early social media platforms. Although Michael left The Brobecks in 2007, their influence on Gross’s later work remained substantial.

In recent months, The original Brobecks line up has reconnected and rereleased a remastered version of their second full-length album, Happiest Nuclear Winter available in digital form for the first time in early 2025. A full-length documentary of the making of this album in 2004-2005, will soon be released. The original lineup is also working on new content and hope to release new songs for their fanbase in early 2005

Let's Become Actors

Let's Become Actor

In addition to his solo work, Gross formed the mostly recordings project Let's Become Actor in the late 2000's, bringing together a mix of indie rock, folk, and experimental sounds. The groups music featured bold arrangements, layering Gross's soaring vocals with complex rhythms and lush instrumentation. The group’s releases garnered attention for their ambitious, cinematic approach to songwriting, often exploring themes of self-identity, relationships, and existential questions.

Let's Become Actor was noted for its dynamic live performances and the chemistry between Gross and his bandmates. The project was well-received in the indie rock scene and led to collaborations with other artists and musicians from a variety of genres.

Michael Gross and the Statuettes

As his career progressed, Gross formed Michael Gross and the Statuettes, a project that blended the singer-songwriter’s signature style with a more electric guitar centric approach. The project emphasized lush guitar arrangements and sophisticated lyrical themes.

Michael Gross and the Statuettes released their debut EP: Dust & Daylight in 2009. The half-album received positive reviews from various publications and music blogs around the internet.

WhisperHawk

After several group projects, Gross pursued a more stripped-down, atmospheric sound with WhisperHawk, a solo project that allowed him to explore themes of introspection, nature, and human connection. . The project has received critical praise for its emotive storytelling, and raw, unpolished production, marking a departure from the more polished pop sensibilities of The Brobecks.

WhisperHawk's music resonated with listeners who appreciated its subtlety and depth, and it helped to establish Gross as a versatile artist able to navigate a wide range of musical styles. It also allowed an outlet for Gross to explore and embrace his Native American heritage as a member of the North Western Band of the Shoshone Nation.

Musical style and influence

Michael Gross's music spans a wide range of genres, from indie rock to folk and orchestral pop. His sound is often described as melancholic, introspective, and emotionally resonant. He is known for his distinctive voice, which can range from delicate and ethereal to powerful and soaring. Gross’s songwriting is frequently introspective, but has not abandoned his penchant for strong melodies.

His musical influences are diverse, drawing from classic rock, indie pop, folk, and alternative music. Some of his cited influences include artists like Radiohead, Neil Young, The Beatles, and contemporary indie artists like Ryan Adams and Grandaddy.

Legacy and impact

Michael Gross has built a reputation as a prolific, and versatile singer-songwriter. His ability to craft emotionally resonant songs, coupled with his willingness to experiment with different musical forms, has earned him a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim.

Though he remains relatively under the radar in mainstream music, Gross’s influence continues to grow within indie and alternative circles, with many fans and critics considering him an underrated talent in the American music scene.

Personal life

Michael currently resides in Utah with his wife and children and is actively involved with affairs concerning The Northwestern Band of the Shoshone Nation.