American Thunder

Hey, so remember that position I got at school writing music reviews? ...You do?! Your memory is way better than mine!
Here's the article I wrote this past week on Harrison Hudson:

Just the title of Harrison Hudson’s third full-length album—“American Thunder”—makes me wish I were driving a muscle car with the windows down, drumming my fingers on the driver’s side door. The album’s sound embodies the spirit that was so much a part of ‘50’s and ‘60’s Americana: raw emotion and pure stream of consciousness. That unbridled sense of freedom, nostalgia, and soulful rock roll over the listener in this third-time’s-the-charm album with a perfect storm of melodies, and Hudson’s vocals are smooth like a soda fountain treat.

            From humble beginnings in Atlanta, GA, Harrison Hudson got his start as a songwriter backed by a band. In 2008, Harrison Hudson had become a full band—taking his name as their title— and making a new home in Nashville, TN. I caught up with Harrison Hudson in May of 2010 when they were touring with Manchester Orchestra at the Theater of the Living Arts in Philly.

Their song, “Indie Rock and Roll Queen” was an instant favorite of mine for its hard-hitting power chords and catchy lyrics. It’s the kind of song that makes you want to dance around playing air-guitar, singing into your hairbrush; not caring if your roommate judges you.

            Harrison Hudson captures the vintage, southern-rock feel and re-inspires it in a new generation of music enthusiasts—not re-manufactures the past. “American Thunder” tells the modern tale of “boy meets manic-pixie-dream-girl” (where are my Garden State fans at?) and “boy winds up heartbroken when she leaves him for another guy.” If you’re anything like me, though, the album closes after playing “Run My Way” about six times, and then mouthing the words to “Bookstore Girl” as you walk across campus to class. It turns it into a “choose your own adventure” story.

Harrison Hudson writes the anthems for the new age horizon chasers and radio blasters. Now if only gas still cost 24 cents a gallon…       

To listen to all tracks on Harrison Hudson's new album, check out their website. 

Thanks for reading! Stay tuned for more music posts, updates, and reviews!
-- L.V.