Not to open this review sounding like Jerry Seinfeld, but “what’s the deal” with using the terminology “girl group” and “female-fronted” in 2022? Yes, it’s something all music journalists are guilty of, but in a post-Runaways/Joan Jett/Girlschool/L7 and so forth world, what’s the point? Furthermore, why does this only apply to the female sex? You never hear anything about “male-fronted” bands. Not once in metal history has anyone referred to Judas Priest or Iron Maiden or Pantera as “male-fronted” bands. Why? Because it’s just weird. What the hell does gender have to do with the music being created?
Mind you, I understand the influence of gender on the lyrical side of things. By no means is a woman’s life experience the same as that of a man, and vice-versa. But as far as good ol’ fashioned, in your face, take no prisoners rock n’ roll goes, well that’s for everyone. Regardless of gender, age, sexuality, and so on, who can’t appreciate the sound of an electric guitar cranked up to 11? I guess enough people, otherwise the pop country and mumble rap industry wouldn’t be thriving, but I digress. Contrary to popular belief, there are still legions who get off on no bullshit rock n’ roll, such as that being performed by Swedish “girl group” (dammit) Thundermother.
True to their name, Thundermother specialize in a thunderous brand of hard rock inspired by AC/DC; specifically the arena rock driven hooks and production that became synonymous with the band from Back in Black onwards. Their latest album, Black and Gold, relies heavily on this formula, yet avoids the pitfalls of redundancy with exciting riffs, unapologetic hooks, and a “take that” attitude. There’s something about the boisterous gang vocals, chunky power chords, and four on the floor drumming of cuts like the anthemic “The Light in the Sky”, poppy “I Don’t Know You”, and boogie laden “Stratosphere” that despite their familiarity, get my blood pumping and head banging.
There are some outliers throughout. “Hot Mess” and “Borrowed Time” showcase the bands knack for bluesy balladry. “Raise Your Hands” displays the Sabbathian swagger that makes one cringe in approval. “Watch Out” and “Try with Love” make you wonder what could be if these gals wanted to make a full throttle metal album à la Girlschool. But at the end of the day, Black and Gold comes off like a lost relic from that now forgotten era of the 2000s when feel-good, party-starting rock n’ roll was the flavor of the day (i.e. Andrew W.K., The Darkness, Wolfmother, Jet). This isn’t to say the album is dated. Killer rock n’ roll is timeless. There’s just something about the overall delivery that reminds me of this era.
As I type this, Thundermother are currently opening a US trek for Scorpions. This collection of hard rock anthems will feel right at home within the confines of 20,000 capacity sports arenas. Quite frankly, a club couldn’t contain the energy emanating from this band. I can only hope the attendees of this tour are as open-minded and receptive to Thundermother as I am. Whether they are or aren’t, there’s no avoiding the impact of the musical fist that is Black and Gold!
7 out of 10
Label: AFM Records
Genre: Hard Rock
For fans of: AC/DC, Girlschool, Airbourne
In a country that still refers to female college students as “coeds,” why are you surprised? Good that you noticed, though.