Photo: Ali Ann Photography
Kentucky Rockers Mojo Thunder Release New Single and Video for “Step By Step” from their forthcoming sophomore album The Infinite Hope set to release August 16th.
A catchy tune written by the band’s lead singer/rhythm guitarist Sean Sullivan, “Step By Step” infuses pop into a rock song about loneliness and despair. A hooky anthem of hope, Sullivan sings about taking one step at a time to overcome the challenges. Even with a bit of a wonky key change, Mojo Thunder crushes the single that pushes them into new rocking territory.
“‘Step By Step’ is about the duality of desiring to be with someone, but also not knowing what to do once you have them,” says Sullivan. “It’s about the fear and anxiety of being alone or not being enough. It’s a reminder that you must keep moving forward, putting one foot in front of the other.”
“Step By Step”
Stream the new single HERE
Drummer Zac Shoopman adds, “It’s probably the first song that indicated a real shift in direction. Step By Step ticks off a lot of boxes that we were yearning for.”
From Sullivan’s vocal delivery, the infectious guitar lines played by Bryson Willoughby, coupled with the rhythm section’s steady groove supplied by Zac Shoopman and bass guitarist Andrew Brockman, “Step by Step” hits the groove in all the right places.
Comprised of Bryson Willoughby (guitar), Sean Sullivan (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Zac Shoopman (drums) and Andrew Brockman (bass) — The Infinite Hope explores topics such activism (“Caroline”), tragedy (“Memphis”) the dark side of the American south (“Holy Ghost”) and searching for truth (“Greetings from Western Art”).
As you get a sense of the band’s message and integrity, it’s easy to find yourself rooting for them. Mojo Thunder is a rock band built for underdogs and the disenfranchised; perhaps because that’s who they are. The Infinite Hope’s 10 tracks feel like a secret kept amongst friends that bond them together. There’s a sense of belonging, and as the album title suggests, a call for hope.
Guitarist Bryson Willoughby says, “I think we all grew up feeling like outsiders. I didn’t enjoy that, and being conscious of that feeling, we’ve done our best to build a welcoming community to all walks of life. Everybody is welcome to our party.”
Reflecting on the growth of the band from their debut release, Shoopman says, “To not be pigeonholed into one genre is highly rewarding.”
Produced by Duane Lundy (Ringo Starr, Justin Wells, Sturgill Simpson) at the Lexington Recording Co., The Infinite Hope sees Mojo Thunder crafting their most diverse soundscapes, not only leaning into the nostalgic rock foundation of their 2021 debut album, Hymns from The Electric Church, but their more modern influences like Kings of Leon, My Morning Jacket and Radiohead as well.
“We all shared the desire to do things as a unit, to perform, to capture as many dynamics as possible, and emotion in the performances, but still putting the priority on the songs,” says Lundy about the recording process. “The lyrics are thoughtful and meaningful, something that I feel like is often slighted in current rock material. My main takeaway was the quality of people they are. Their invitation meant a great deal to me. I feel like I have four new family members.”
In support of the record the band will perform a select run of Kentucky concerts leading up to its release prior to embarking on a month-long European tour that includes stops in Germany, France, Spain and more. Tickets are available from www.mojothunder.com.
Purchase the album HERE
The Infinite Hope – Track Listing
The Sun Still Rises (4:28)
Coming Back to You (4:46)
Step by Step (3:25)
Let it Fall (4:00)
Holy Ghost (3:09)
Memphis (5:04)
Caroline (4:45)
Gettin’ On a Binge (4:17)
Grace (4:44)
Greetings from Western Art (7:37)
Mojo Thunder website
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