Blacklist Union are back, and they’re digging deep into the swampy underbelly of rock and roll with their latest single, “Mississippi Moonhound.” Following on the heels of their 2024 releases, “Horns & Halos” and “Hey Mr Superstar,” this new track is a potent and irresistible anthem that perfectly encapsulates their signature blend of Stone Temple Pilots’ grit, Guns N’ Roses’ swagger, Malfunkshun’s otherworldly vibe, The Cult’s anthemic power, and Mother Love Bone’s soulful depth.
“Mississippi Moonhound,” the debut offering from their forthcoming 6th studio album, Slay the Dragon, captures that haunting feeling of being tethered to your past while yearning for something more in the dead of night. It’s a track drenched in atmosphere, with a slow-burning intensity that gradually ignites into a full-blown rock and roll howl. The production, helmed by the esteemed Christopher Johnson (known for his work with Evanescence, Hans Zimmer, and the late Scott Weiland, among others), is suitably rich and textured, allowing the band’s raw energy to shine through while adding a layer of sonic polish.
Frontman Tony West’s Bronx roots and subsequent immersion in the Los Angeles rock scene are palpable in Blacklist Union’s sound. Raised on the raw energy of the Ramones, Bad Brains, and the New York hardcore scene, West’s journey to the West Coast, including early collaborations with Todd Youth and members of Malfunkshun, has clearly shaped his musical DNA. Forming Blacklist Union in 2006, he’s consistently delivered a potent brand of rock that feels both classic and contemporary.
“Mississippi Moonhound” is a testament to this evolution. The track oozes a confident swagger, with hard-hitting guitar riffs that slither and bite, anchored by a rhythm section that provides a solid, driving backbone. West’s vocals are suitably gritty and soulful, conveying both the weight of the past and the yearning for something beyond. The lyrical themes of being haunted and howling into the night resonate with a primal intensity.
Managed by Saliva’s Paul Crosby, Blacklist Union have also cultivated a reputation for their explosive live shows, sharing stages with punk legends Dead Boys and former Saliva frontman Josey Scott. This energy is palpable in “Mississippi Moonhound,” a track that feels tailor-made for a sweaty, packed venue.
With “Mississippi Moonhound,” Blacklist Union have laid down a marker for their upcoming album, Slay the Dragon. It’s a swampy, irresistible anthem that showcases their unique and potent blend of influences. If this single is anything to go by, their sixth studio effort promises to be another powerful chapter in their ongoing sonic journey, transporting listeners from the gritty streets to the wild heart of rock and roll.
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