THUNDER SPEAKS – ‘STOP/GO’

THUNDER SPEAKS – ‘STOP/GO’
SINGLE
Independent

“A painter paints pictures on canvas. But musicians paint their pictures on silence.” — Leopold Stokowski. 

Even though Thunder Speaks’ electro-psych-rock formula is universes away from Leopold Stokowski’s work on Disney’s Fantasia, the local trio have created their own painting to a degree with their single ‘Stop/Go’. 

Incorporating two bass guitars, a synth, electronic beats and live percussion, the musical movements are captivating and turbulent. It all begins with a compelling, post-punk vibrancy that evokes Finland’s Beastmilk, before the three-piece enhances the track’s potency with electronic flourishes that would impress Sneaker Pimps. The driving force is administered by drummer John Russo, who channels the robust rhythm of Fay Milton’s jaw- dropping performance on Savages’ song, ‘Fuckers’. 

The blank canvas of silence has now been coloured with a murky background of darkness, drips of electric brightness and splashes of clashing psychedelic textures. The feathering touches come from vocalist/ instrumentalist Azz Shaw, who melodically repeats the words “Stop/Go” in a fashion that imprints itself brilliantly in the listener’s mind. 

Look at the bigger picture? With this striking song, one can miraculously hear it. 

Sounds like: LCD Soundsystem experimenting with Gang Of Four at an improvised concert. 

By Will Oakeshott