Formed by Brown following the disbandment of his former band bIG*fLAME in 1986, The Great Leap Forward has essentially been a solo project in which Brown writes all songs and lyrics, and plays / programs all instruments on recordings.
The style and sound is more melodic and accessible than bIG*fLAME, but still with overtly political lyrics founded on a socialist & humanist ethos, manifesting itself in incisive political and social commentary layered over sharp yet melodic guitar pop – and with a touch of electro and humour thrown in for good measure…
Legendary BBC Radio DJ John Peel was a great supporter of both bIGfLAME and The Great Leap Forward, with Brown in his time recording 9 Peel sessions for bIGfLAME, TGLF, A Witness, and Inca Babies.
Brown / TGLF has continued to release albums over the years (https://thegreatleapforward.bandcamp.com/music), and for live performance in 2026 has recruited experienced musicians & long-time friends Richie Dempsey on drums (Stretchheads, Dawson, DeSalvo, Sumshapes) and Anthony Chapman on bass and Electronic Organisation (Collapsed Lung, Super Burner, Arndales).