David Cawkwell - guitar, lead vocals.
Yvonne Vally - backup vocals, percussion
Mary Jane Olkie- backup vocals, electric violin, flute
Influences
The new album "500 Miles" now available on iTunes.
"500 Miles" Reviewed by RadioIndy.com!
A big part of the appeal of the New Wave movement back in the early 80’s was the shift away from the bloated AOR sounds dominating airwaves to a simpler, ‘60’s-oriented approach to songs and melody, albeit filtered through a new attitude - as well as a new sonic template, that would eventually shape much of the legacy of ‘80’s rock. On “500 Miles,” the latest CD from When Thunder Comes, New Wave is the order of the day in a 12-song collection that is, however, no less contemporary for all of its retro embellishments. On songs like “Good Ole Days” and the title track, “500 Miles,” keenly balanced lead and harmony vocals are set off against tasteful synth incursions to flesh out rockers that are both catchy and provocative. Other tracks evoke different sounds of the New Wave era, like “See You In My Dreams,” with its almost U2-like slice of ethereal pop, and “Endless Seas,” reminiscent of classic Talking Heads. Throughout, though, the band plays with fire and precision, delivering up a set of infectious originals that mark When Thunder Comes’ “500 Miles” CD as fitting in this era as it would have been 25 years ago.
-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out When Thunder Comes's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites
In March 2009, WHEN THUNDER COMES releases their seventh music release CD entitled, “500 Miles”. This music continues the 'Evolution of Thunder' that started in 1983. Upbeat, positive, joyful, melodic are just a few descriptive words.
This project represents 1½ years of work with no time or expense spared. The music combines 60’s sensibilities, with 80’s new wave rock but with a very modern sound. These anthemic, upbeat and melodic songs are a breath of fresh air in such complicated times. Four part harmonies, psychedelic guitar leads, and a thread of Celtic flavor merge together with precision song writing. The title cut, 500 Miles opens with Rickenbacker 12 string guitar, orchestral keyboards, and the unique lead vocals of David Cawkwell. Some listeners have suggested that the vocal style is like Jethro Tull or Midnight Oil. After several live performances it became evident that the audience hangs on every word of the lyrics while bouncing along with the steady beat of the drums and bass from Jonny Rock. Keyboardist, Harrison Tate brings unusual high tech sounds that are original and orchestral while vocalist, Yvonne Vally, layers a distant, ethereal harmony to the lead vocals. In 2007, THUNDER released their first CD called, “FAREWELL NOSTRADAMUS”. This was a very eclectic production that showed versatility of sounds and ideas. The medieval theme weaved a rock opera style with dark and light moments. With many shows under his belt, singer-songwriter David Cawkwell continues to evolve his music with new players and move forward to spread the positive feelings of a good time to all. As veteran musicians at the top of their game, the main inspiration for them is their love of the songs and the joy that it brings. If you would like to discover a band that has a large catalog of recordings...listen to Thunder !
