MOTHMAN AND THE THUNDERBIRDS - Nomad (Track Premiere)

We slumbering peasantry tend to grumble and complain about the back-breaking labor involved in this review-writin' trade, but this profession isn't marked solely by a surplus of sweat and tears. When encountering hordes of new music and bands on a daily basis, there are many moments of pure and unbridled excitement--and nothing is more invigorating than a brand new band that positively reeks of potential. Such is the case with today's (one man!) crew in question: Philadelphia's Mothman and the Thunderbirds. The sheer fact alone that this single track has garnered a bevy of reviews from our neighboring blogs and publications should be indication of the promise, and we haven't even got to the damn music yet.

To review such a track is exciting, but to premiere one is a genuine honor. Before we get too far ahead of ourselves, give "Nomad" a listen below! We'll meet ye on the other side.

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​At first blush, "Nomad" possesses the two key components of any sludgy doom track worth its salt: an engaging riff and an equally engaging hook. However, subsequent immersion indicates a level of dynamism that serves to elevate the track as a whole. The brief buildup, for example, reveals the thick groove without simply depositing the listener in the midst without acclimation. Indeed, the acoustic intro, while quite brief, does quite well the tease the layers, solos, and subtleties that later emerge. The main riff--that monolithic central motif--carries itself with a tangible swagger and weight, but a certain Blood Mountain-era Mastodonian willingness to throw meandering leads over the groove keeps things endlessly fresh and exciting. Parkinson's vocals, which feel appropriately Baroness-esque in their languid aggression, do well to compliment said texture. All the while, the truck plugs along at a pace more befitting hard rock than sleeping stoner; a contrast which, all told, only serves to maintain a high level of interest. It's a very strong track, and an even stronger debut.

In this scribe's humble opinion, ye are witnessing is pure undistilled potential. To say that I'm excited to see what Mothman and the Thunderbirds cook up next is the understatement of the week. If you're on the hunt for a solid tune--and really, who isn't these days--do yourself a favor and give "Nomad" a listen. And then, for good measure, follow this talented crypotzoological specimen everywhere it may roam.

Mothman and the Thunderbirds -"Nomad" was released Aug. 18th, 2020

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