Brandon Flowers prepares to release a new country album in Nashville
Thrasher is also a solo project by Brandon Flowers, embracing his love for country western music, a genre that had been waiting for him to explore. His journey into country music is not surprising, considering the influence of his father’s music and the stories he has to share with an eager spirit. Flowers expressed his excitement for this new venture, emphasizing that his interest in new wave and rock and roll does not diminish; instead, he is making room for more diverse musical expressions in his artistry.
The exploration of different genres by artists is not uncommon, with many musicians delving into country music while citing lifelong admiration for the genre. Still, the true test lies in the final musical output, which was eagerly anticipated in the case of Brandon Flowers. The new album, Thrasher, was recorded in Nashville, Tennessee, last July with a talented team of musicians assembled by producers Jonathan Rado and Shawn Everett. Flowers described the experience as one of the highlights of his career, attributing the joy evident in the record to the collective fun had during the recording process.
Thrasher mirrors Bob Dylan’s Nashville Skyline era, wherein the iconic artist brought country songs to Nashville and collaborated with seasoned country musicians to create a unique sound. The album features country luminaries such as Charlie McCoy, Bruce Bouton, and David Rawlings, who contribute to the authentic country vibe of the record. In the video for the single “Plans,” shot at Nashville’s Studio ‘A,’ the inclusion of Mickey Raphael on harmonica adds depth to the countrypolitan feel of the song. Flowers’ hometown, Nephi, Utah, and the personal influences gathered from his upbringing are reflected in the music, infusing a small-town essence into the album.
Unlike some crossover efforts aiming for commercial success, Thrasher by Brandon Flowers feels like a heartfelt passion project rooted in a genuine appreciation for country music. The album offers a counter-narrative to popular country music trends, presenting a fresh perspective on the genre while staying true to Flowers’ artistic vision. With songs like “Tiger’s Blood” and “An American Dream” featured on the tracklist, Thrasher promises a musical journey that balances country aesthetics with Flowers’ distinctive style. As the album becomes available for pre-save/pre-order, fans eagerly anticipate the fusion of rock and country in this captivating exploration of musical multitudes.