Thunderpussy is a band that does not fit the rock n’ roll mood. This fierce foursome has broken the mold of what rock and roll should look and sound like. Full of soul and not afraid to tackle subjects many others would dare not. They are talented and unparalleled in the way they go about creating and performing their music. With the debut album about to be released at the end of May, Thunderpussy will be a band that leaves a mark on the rock scene.
Hailing from Seattle many would believe Thunderpussy, like so many other bands from the famous city would embrace the grunge scene, however it is quite the opposite. The band embraces its own unique style and sound that encompasses soul and good ‘ol rock and rock. Of course, there are some hard rock moments but overall the band knows how to create something worth listening.
With topics ranging from “feminism, queerness, gender roles, equality, love and friendship” Thunderpussy created songs based around themes that are culturally relevant but often not talked about in modern music today. Thunderpussy has gotten praise from Pearl Jam guitarist, Mike McCready and Rolling Stone magazine to name a few, becoming a “quiet phenomenon”. Their EP, Greatest Tits which was released earlier this year got great reviews from Refinary 29 and NPR.
The band made up of Molly Sides on vocals, Leah Julius on bass, Whitney Petty on guitar and Ruby Dunphy on drums will be releasing its self-titled, debut album, Thunderpussy, May 25, 2018 on Stardog Records/Republic Records. The album was produced by Sylvia Massy. The album is sure to surprise all those who listen to it as it processes so many magical musical and vocal moments.
The first track on the album is “Speed Queen”, with a steady drum introduction followed by a sliding guitar playing and rocking bass. The tone is set for the true rock song. Mix in a sexy and sassy sounding Sides on vocals and you get the perfect recipe for an opening tune.
“Badlands” provides a sultry vocal performance by Sides. Her voice has the ability to manipulate its range and style in so many different ranges making for some impressive vocal skills. With a strong bass and drum presence and echoing of vocals in the background the song builds from there. Picking guitar sections turn to full on impressive guitar soloing from Petty.
One song on the album that truly will become a fan favorite is “Torpedo Love”. Starting out it appears it’s a ballad with strumming acoustic guitars, steady bass, firm playing bass mixed with passionate melodic vocals. There are even string sections that are playing underneath the sound adding depth to the piece. Then out of nowhere close to the end it turns into a rock song with steady guitar, bass and drums.
In the same style as “Torpedo Love” is “Velvet Noose”. It starts off as a true rock and roll song with guitars strumming, rolling drums and heavy bass. Sides provides some sexy and sultry vocals. By the middle of the song in comes wailing guitar solos that lead you on a journey mixed with Sides’ powerhouse vocals that make for one of those enchanting moments in music that takes the listeners breath away.
“UteroTango” is an upbeat rock song mixed with Latin flair. Guitar, bass and drums all create a dance rhythmically when played together with keyboards showing off a side of the band that is fun and unique in nature. Adding Sides, gritty vocals makes for pure delight.
The title track off the album and first single “Thunderpussy” is full of fierce, sultry punk rock flair. With screams coming from Sides along with powerhouse vocals, she means business. Petty creates a masterpiece playing a killer shrouding guitar solo to top off the bass and drums heavy presence.
The last song on the album is the 6 minute long mesmerizing and surreal feeling “Young and Pure”. The music takes the listener on a voyage with stunning vocals that are dreamlike. The music is full of unwavering beauty with steady guitar, bass and drums that are the backdrop for the story being told. It is a fitting end to the album.
Thunderpussy is a band that is unlike any other. With remarkable song writing and execution, Thunderpussy is sure to be an album that will draw people in. From the first song to the last each tune has its own sound and message to be told. Sides’ vocals are to be credited with creating the bands vocal sound. Her vocals style embodies Janis Joplin, Dorothy and Florence Welch yet she is her own unique performer. Petty makes songs come to life musically with her guitar styles and broad range from melodic to face melting solos. Julius and Dunphy hold the band together with their steady and heavy present bass and drum playing. As a whole the band’s diverse sound and style will draw fans. Thunderpussy is an album any true rock fan wants in their collection.
