Pelican is an American instrumental post-metal band formed in Chicago, Illinois, in 2001. Known for their heavy, atmospheric compositions and intricate guitar work, Pelican has been a central figure in the development of post-metal and modern instrumental metal. The band’s core members include Trevor de Brauw (guitar), Bryan Herweg (bass), Larry Herweg (drums), and Dallas Thomas (guitar, joining later), with past member Laurent Schroeder-Lebec contributing significantly to their early sound.

Pelican emerged from the Chicago underground scene, blending the intensity of metal with the dynamics and textures of post-rock. Their early releases, including Australasia (2003) and The Fire in Our Throats Will Beckon the Thaw (2005), showcased their signature style: sprawling, layered compositions that build from subtle melodic passages into crushing crescendos, all without the use of vocals. This approach emphasizes mood, tension, and the interplay of melody and heaviness, allowing the listener to engage fully with the evolving sonic landscape.

Over the years, Pelican’s sound has continued to evolve, incorporating elements of ambient music, sludge, and progressive structures. Albums such as What We All Come to Need (2009), Forever Becoming (2013), and Nighttime Stories (2019) highlight their ability to maintain intensity while exploring more complex arrangements and nuanced textures. Their music has been praised for its cinematic qualities, with expansive compositions that evoke both grandeur and introspection.

Pelican is also known for their immersive live performances, where the intricacies of their layered compositions are brought to life with precision and power. Through their combination of technical skill, compositional ambition, and atmospheric depth, Pelican has established themselves as one of the most influential instrumental bands in modern heavy music, creating immersive, evocative soundscapes that resonate with fans of both metal and post-rock.