Battle Tactics With...

So it must be more than just the -2 to damage roll or whatever the crap it is.

Most definitely. After dirt, it was the first thing I did in battle.

Hrmm...is brawl noticeable, (for example, more total attacks) or does it just affect accuracy?

Weakness:

BASH, that's pretty much it. If you get bashed wave bye bye unless you are a giant who is already enlarged.

So...outdamage the basher. Simple as that. Or, enlarge yourself since you can't be a giant bard.