EP review: THE GEORGIA THUNDERBOLTS

THE GEORGIA THUNDERBOLTS

Mascot Records [Release date 21.08.20]

The Georgia Thunderbolts hail from Rome, Georgia, and comprise vocalist TJ Lyle, Riley Couzzourt (guitar), Logan Tolbert (guitar), Zach Everett (bass, harmony vocals, keys), and Bristol Perry (drums). Friends since high school, the band have been taken under the wing of established acts like Black Stone Cherry and the Kentucky Headhunters, whose frontman Richard Young has produced the EP.

“We’re going for that timeless and classic sound with a modern twist and newer attitude,” states TJ Lyle. Well the Georgia Thunderbolts certainly achieve their aim, recalling such greats as Lynyryd Skynyrd, the Allman Brothers and newer bands like the aforementioned Black Stone Cherry.

Vocalist TJ Lyle is a real find, a smooth, southern drawl to his singing as can be heard on ‘Set Me Free’. This song also highlights another key element of the band’s sound, that of the keys/organ playing by Zach Everett.

‘Looking For An Old Friend’ features some sublime slide playing, underpinned by a hypnotic acoustic guitar riff. A classic slice of southern rock if ever there was one. If you didn’t know better you’d think this band have been plying their trade since the 70’s, especially on ‘So You Wanna Change The World’. Loving the drums on this one too.

The foot stomping ‘Lend A Hand’ has been played by rock radio recently, as its chorus sticks with in your head after just one listen. ‘Spirt Of A Working Man’ is the band’s calling card, again the guitars impress as do the whole band and sound to be fair.

Not been this impressed by a southern rock tinged band since first clapping ears on Black Stone Cherry some years back.

Highly impressive debut EP. Bodes well for the Georgie Thunderbolts who just need the chance to get out on the road and give these songs a live work out. ****

Review by Jason Ritchie


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COLLATERAL Glass Sky (Big Shot Records)
THE ZUTONS Pauline (ICEPOP)
THE GEORGIA THUNDERBOLTS Rise Above It All (Mascot)
MATT PEARCE & THE MUTINY From Here To The Moon (indie)
THE BLACK VULTURES Never Say (indie)

Featured Albums w/c 4 March 2024

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14:00-16:00 The Best of 2003-2023


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