BANDS THAT BREW
Bands That Brew: When Music Meets Craft Beer
Some of the world’s most iconic bands have stepped off the stage and into the brewery, crafting their own beers that celebrate everything from album releases to personal passions. These collaborations range from rare one-off brews to regular beer lines, showing that rock 'n' roll and craft beer have more in common than you might think. Whether it’s a nod to their fans, a celebration of new music, or simply a fun extension of their creative identities, these bands are proving that music isn’t the only thing they can rock.
Let’s dive into the beers that are being brewed in the spirit of Music!
Fred Durst: Fred Thirst IPA
I came across a post promoting limb bizkit’s front man Fred Durst’s new IPA and it got me thinking about how a lot of bands do the same and have a connection through beers.
Limp Bizkit’s frontman Fred Durst is no stranger to making an impact, and his latest venture into the beer world comes in the form of *Fred Thirst*, an IPA brewed with Citra and Mosaic hops. Featuring bold, citrusy notes, this fan-inspired brew has a cheeky nod to Durst’s own brand of rebellious energy. The can design, complete with Durst’s iconic backward red cap, takes fans back to the band's glory days of the late ‘90s and early ‘00s. While it’s a limited-run beer, Fred Thirst is a fun and fitting tribute to a frontman whose influence on rock culture is undeniable.
Pearl Jam: MPS Pool Ale
Pearl Jam’s MPS Pool Ale, created in collaboration with KettleHouse Brewing Co. in Montana, is more than just a beer; it’s a cause. Released in 2022, the 5% ABV American pale ale donates a portion of its proceeds to the Montana Pool Service (MPS), an organisation founded by the band to fund skate parks in underserved communities. Although the name pool ale isn’t a recognised style, the collaboration is a clear example of Pearl Jam’s passion for both their music and their mission to support local causes. Drinking this beer means you’re not just celebrating the band, but contributing to a bigger cause as well
Killswitch Engage: Alive or Just Brewing IPA
Killswitch Engage’s Alive or Just Brewing IPA celebrates the band’s 15th anniversary of their album Alive or Just Breathing. This 7.6% ABV American IPA quickly became a fan favourite, showing that Killswitch Engage isn’t just about heavy riffs and intense shows — they’re also about brewing beers with real character. Rated as the highest on this list, this limited-edition IPA is a serious contender for anyone looking to combine great music with a bold brew. It's a testament to the band’s commitment to their craft, both in music and in brewing.
Deftones: Ohms Pale Ale
Deftones’ relationship with beer goes beyond just enjoying a cold one after a set; the band’s creative spirit extends into brewing. In 2021, they released a limited-edition dry-hopped pale ale to commemorate their album Ohms. This wasn’t the band’s first foray into the brewing world, either. Deftones had previously launched a series of beers, including a Mexican-style lager, a brown ale, and a DDHIPA (double dry-hopped IPA). Their beers, like their music, evolve with time — always experimental, always pushing boundaries. Ohms pale ale was a bold reflection of their evolving sound, and fans were quick to raise a glass in celebration.
AC/DC
When you think of AC/DC, you probably imagine fast guitars, thumping drums, and a hard-hitting rock attitude. But did you know the band has their own beer? In 2015, AC/DC teamed up with Germany’s Karlsberg Brewery to release a premium lager, timed to coincide with their album Rock or Bust. Brewed in line with Germany's Reinheitsgebot (the Beer Purity Law), this 5% ABV lager merges the precision of German brewing with the raw energy of Aussie rock. It’s a beer that truly encapsulates the spirit of “German beer, Australian hard rock.”
The Final Pour
The connection between music and beer is undeniable — whether it’s a nod to a band’s roots, a celebration of new sounds, or just a fun way to connect with fans. From limited-edition runs to permanent collaborations, these bands are showing that beer isn’t just for the after-party. It’s an extension of their identity, creativity, and love for their fans.
Next time you crack open a cold one, consider the soundtrack to your sip. Who knows? That brew might just be the perfect drink to pair with the next great rock anthem.