Brandon Flowers to release new country-inspired solo album ‘Thrasher’
Brandon Flowers, frontman of the band Killers, has always been known for his rock and new wave influences. However, Flowers surprised fans by announcing his newest solo album, Thrasher, which he describes as his foray into country/western music. This shift in musical direction may seem unexpected to some, given Flowers’ background as a Mormon from Nevada who has been known to don cowboy hats in public for decades.
While many artists have ventured into country music in recent years due to its surge in popularity, Flowers’ exploration of the genre seems fitting given his personal roots and long-standing affinity for cowboy culture. Recorded at Nashville’s iconic RCA Studio A with producers Shawn Everett and Jonathan Rado, Thrasher features contributions from renowned Nashville musicians, such as David Rawlings and Charlie McCoy.
In a cinematic album trailer, Flowers reflects on his upbringing in Nephi, Utah, describing the allure of country/western music as a connection to his father’s musical legacy. He expresses a sense of revelation and excitement at delving into this new sonic territory, describing it as a space that has been waiting for him to explore. This newfound inspiration is evident in the tracklist for Thrasher, which includes songs like “Does It Ever Cross Your Mind?” and “One Of Us.”
Despite not releasing any tracks from the album yet, Flowers teased fans with a snippet of a song in the trailer, hinting at a fusion of his signature sound with country elements like pedal steel guitar. This blending of genres promises a unique listening experience that stays true to Flowers’ artistic evolution while embracing new influences. With the lead single “Plans” set to drop soon, anticipation is building for the release of Thrasher on August 21st.
As Flowers embarks on this musical journey, he invites listeners to join him in exploring the intersection of rock, new wave, and country/western sounds. The thematic underpinnings of Thrasher draw from Flowers’ personal experiences and upbringing, offering a heartfelt glimpse into the stories and emotions that have shaped his artistic expression. The album’s release marks a significant moment in Flowers’ career, signaling a new chapter in his musical exploration and creative evolution.