Thunder’s”Dopamine” – UK Rock Thunder! Rock Music is Alive in the UK!

This is the last studio release from UK icons Thunder, the perennial purveyors of hard-hitting yet always thoughtful sounds. Dopamine, a 16-track opus forged in the difficult period of worldwide lockdown, where guitarist and mastermind Luke Morley found solace in the riffs and rhythms born of isolation.
In a candid joint interview with Thunder‘s illustrious lead singer, Danny Bowes, Morley unveiled the album’s thematic tapestry. Dopamine is not merely a musical endeavor; it’s a sonic exploration of the pandemic’s stark realities. Themes of loneliness and introspection weave through the album, juxtaposed against the pernicious allure of social media’s dopamine hits. A reflection of the times, a reflection of the soul.
The musical canvas painted by Thunder on Dopamine is as diverse as it is electrifying. It’s a journey through the heart of rock, where acoustic blues rub shoulders with infectious guitar riffs, where saxophones serenade and accordions dance. A gospel chorus lifts the spirit to celestial heights.
The journey commences with “The Western Sky,” a nod to Bowes’ and Morley’s annual charity motorbike odyssey. Its uplifting chorus echoes the vast landscapes they traverse. “No Smoke Without Fire,” inspired by the dark underbelly of online trolling, reveals a raw, unapologetic side.
Born in 1989, Thunder has bestowed upon us anthems like “Dirty Love,” “Low Life in High Places,” and “A Better Man.”
Their 2015 album, “Wonder Days,” marked a triumphant return, to the UK Top 10 after two decades. Since then, they’ve continued to grace that coveted bracket. As Bowes poignantly acknowledges, the sands of time have shifted, and they now reckon they have more years behind them than ahead.
Dopamine unfolds as an ambitious double album, a sprawling but cohesive masterpiece that delves deep into Thunder’s soul. It starts in familiar territory with “The Western Sky,” a celebration of their annual American charity ride, radiating positivity. The vibe of resilience persists in tracks like “One Day We’ll Be Free Again” and “Across The Nation.”
Yet, Thunder’s strength lies in their versatility, and Dopamine gleefully explores new territories. “Big Pink Supermoon” swings with bluesy jazz charm, graced by a sultry saxophone solo. “Just A Grifter” unexpectedly delves into folk with a Gallic twist, while “Disconnected” takes a Beatles-inspired psychedelic detour.
Amidst the diverse soundscape, mellower tracks like “Even If It Takes A Lifetime” and “Is Anybody Out There” offer moments of introspection, while darker rockers like “The Dead City” and “I Don’t Believe The World” pierce the shadows.
Dopamine may appear as a sensory overload upon first listen, but repeated spins unveil the exquisite songwriting prowess within. Thunder, at this juncture in their illustrious career, have earned the liberty to push boundaries and redefine their sonic horizons.
Now, the question that lingers like a melody in the wind: where will Thunder venture with their next opus?
Dopamine by Thunder reviews:
“Thunder delivers a double dose of hard-rocking goodness on ‘Dopamine.’ The album is a sprawling and ambitious affair, showcasing the band’s versatility with a mix of classic rockers, bluesy grooves, and even some unexpected twists. Highlights include the anthemic ‘The Western Sky,’ the soulful ‘Disconnected,’ and the epic closer ‘No Smoke Without Fire.'” – Louder Sound
“‘Dopamine’ is a testament to Thunder’s enduring appeal. The band sounds revitalized, delivering a collection of songs that are both familiar and fresh. Danny Bowes’ vocals are as powerful as ever, and Luke Morley’s guitar work is stellar throughout. While the album’s length might be daunting for some, there’s no denying the quality of the songwriting and performances.” – Maximum Volume Music
“With ‘Dopamine,’ Thunder proves they’re not afraid to experiment and push their boundaries. The album is a journey through various shades of rock, from the hard-hitting to the introspective. While not every track is a home run, the highs are truly impressive, showcasing a band that’s still at the top of their game after all these years.” – Sea of Tranquility
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