I treat brick bond just the same as a regular grid pattern. If the pattern's horisontal, no prob there; if it's vertical, no prob either, as you'll still have a line to go by every other tile. Put ya spirit level on top of the top most tiles if it helps.
Edit: I tend to use chalk most of the time as well, but in certain situations, especially on REALLY large surfaces, I find lasers useful. Lasers and mid sized rooms, ie fairly large bathrooms, are a good combo though, I must admit.
As for lines distorting: Good lasers + laser visibility goggles = spanking good.
Thx for the compliment btw
Edit:
I've been thinking of getting one of those small 90 degree angle lasers for a while. They seem useful.