Thunderbooming rock

“Thunder and Fire” Jason and the Scorchers (A&M Records)

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
August 20, 1989

Copyright 1989-2004 Little Rock Newspapers, Inc.

The live dynamics of this Nashville rock ‘n’ roll band had never been transferred to vinyl with total success ... until now, on their fourth album. With a new, stronger five-man lineup, their lean and sinuous rock sounds better than ever, especially on “ When the Angels Cry,” a driving tribute to a working man who has little more to show for his labor than a wristwatch.
The emphasis is on the beat, especially on stinging numbers like “ My Kingdom for a Car,” “ Lights Out,” “ Find You” and “ Away From You.” There is a country feel to the ballads “ Close Up the Road” and “ Bible and a Gun” and the gentle “No Turning Back.” But the best songs here are the rockers.
It’s interesting to ponder the power of this stuff on record. If it sounds that good from the studio, just imagine what it will sound like live. This may be the release to finally make these guys genuine stars.

© 1989-2004 — Little Rock Newspapers, Inc.— All Rights Reserved