THE BLACK MOODS – ARTIST SPOTLIGHT & ALBUM REVIEW
By Ralph Beauchamp
Phoenix’s own, The Black Moods recently released their latest full length, Into The Night. In addition, the band has partnered with a local establishment, Walter Station Brewery, to create a limited edition light blonde ale called “Hollywood and Lime”. It references their awesome track, “Hollywood” off the new disc.
The Black Moods are a three piece rock and roll juggernaut. Their sound captures the best of classic rock and cements it with a modern flair. The group is comprised of Josh Kennedy (Vocals/Guitar), Jordan Hoffman (Bass) and Chico Diaz (Drums). The band has performed with a bevy of elite artists including Shinedown, Jane’s Addition and The Gin Blossoms. Their 4th album, Into The Night, was released in 2022 via Wit Hustle/The Orchard/Steelhorse Entertainment. The record was produced by Johnny “K” Karkazis (Disturbed/3 Doors Down).
Into The Night delivers 12 tracks that are both hard hitting and extremely melodic. Kennedy’s voice carries a special ambiance that enlivens every tune. Hoffman’s bass has a brazen charisma while Diaz’s percussions either slams with authority or conveys pallets of texture.
The album contains some raw and boisterous tunes. Just listen to “Fire & Gasoline”. The tempo is gigantic. The vocals are huge while the musicianship is outstanding. “Youth Is Wasted On The Young” is another hard hitting song with bright accents and sharp vocals. Hoffman’s bass is barreling and the drums dispense captivating spirit. “Saturday Night” hammers with layers of tumultuous riffs and anthemic harmonies. Kennedy’s voice is full of exciting stamina. This is definitely a crowd pleaser. “On and On” showcases the band’s tenacious songwriting and musical prowess. The cadence is superb.
Moreover, Into The Night parades another facet of The Black Moods. Beyond their driving tunes, they harbor a more passionate side. On “Hollywood”, the band creates a circle of jangling guitars and emotive yearnings. Josh’s vocals are picturesque and heartfelt. Again, the harmonies are enthralling and the arrangement distributes a lofty refinement. “The Cure” is an addictive ballad with a sonic punch. Likewise, “She Gets Out” is cinematically gnarly with a weeping guitar and a stellar backbeat.
Some of The Black Moods‘ older material is worth looking into. “Bad News” from their 2020 release Sunshine is killer as well as “Whatcha Got”. Their 2012 single “Bella Donna” cranks with a massive groove. The Black Moods surely know how to furnish a solid sound and a good time.
Getting back to “Hollywood and Lime”, Walter Station Brewery’s co-owner Jim Erickson states:
“Brewing a beer with and for The Black Moods was an idea I’ve had since the guys played at the brewery while it was still under construction back in 2016. It was an amazing show and an opportunity to introduce my friends, family and brewing community to the band, which everyone loved and still talk about today.”
The Black Moods are surely a band with a bright future. We should all drink to that.
3/24 Nashville, TN @ The Basement #
3/25 Huntsville, AL @ The Camp #
3/27 Columbus, OH @ Rumba Café #
3/28 Brooklyn, NY @ The Meadows #
3/29 Buffalo, NY @ Mohawk Place #
3/30 Mechanicsburg, PA @ Lovedraft’s #
3/31 Akron, OH @ The Empire #
4/1 Toledo, OH @ The Ottawa Tavern #
4/2 Joliet, IL @ The Forge #
4/4 St. Louis, MO @ Blueberry Hill Duck Room #
4/6 Colorado Springs, CO @ Sunshine Studios #
4/7 Kansas City, MO @ Vivo #
5/6 Phoenix, AZ – UFEST 2023 @ Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre
# March Radness Tour with The Dead Deads
To learn more about The Black Moods, check out their Website
Follow on Facebook /TikTok / Instagram / YouTube
Stream music: Spotify / Pandora
Purchase: Amazon
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