Giant Squid is a progressive and experimental metal band with roots in Sacramento, San Francisco and Austin, Texas. Debuting in 2004 with Metridium Field on Tyrannosaurus Records, the group established a sound that has at times been described by critics as "post-metal," due to the forward-thinking style it employs. Upon further dissection however, characteristics of familiar sub-genres such as sludge and doom can be found in Giant Squid's heavy compositions. What ultimately sets the band apart from its peers is the inclusion of cello work courtesy of member Jackie Perez Gratz. The contrast between the quiet beauty of the instrument and the crashing, ominous tones coming from the rest of the group makes for a unique experience that has won over fans who appreciate artists looking to blur the lines between metal's sometimes confining genre limitations.
