Thunder, in case you don’t know, are a London based rock band who have been enjoying commercial success for 30 years now.  In fact they even toured Australia in 2017, off the back of their last album, Rip It Up.

This album, Please Remain Seated, features semi acoustic reworkings of their better known songs.  It was recorded in London about 10 days before Christmas last year and, for the most part, it works well.

What the album does well, is highlight the fine voice of Danny Bowes and the musicianship of the likes of guitarist Luke Morley (who also produces this record) and drummer Harry James.  All get a chance to shine in this intimate environment and in Bowes, it demonstrates the richness and depth of his voice, something he hasn’t lost since their debut album, Backstreet Symphony in 1990.

The treatment of the songs is interesting.  For the most part, it’s a breezy, light Blues sort of vibe.  Imagine a sort of Jack Johnson style and we’re close.  On The Girl’s Going Crazy though, it ends up being a jazzy supper club thing that’s equally bizarre and not pleasant. 

On the whole, it’s a great edition for the fan.  If you’re starting on your Thunder journey, I would suggest either Rip It Up, Wonder Days, Backstreet Symphony or their 3CD greatest hits collection. 

7/10

Review by Gregg Heldon