ALABAMA THUNDERPUSSY - Fulton Hill
July 6, 2004, 20 years ago
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Fulton Hill is the fifth album from ATP, but more importantly, it's the first with new vocalist John Weills. A more perfect replacement could not have been found, as John is the consummate compliment to original throat Johnny Throckmorton. Weills thrives on duality - he's either belting out an angered holler or singing in a warm and welcoming tone. 'R.R.C.C.' and 'Do Not' are at absolute opposite ends of the spectrum but it's the same man singing them both. Fulton Hill is a remarkable record, not only because it showcases a brilliant new frontman; but also because it sees Alabama Thunderpussy shattering their previous pigeonholes. "Moonshine Metal", "Truckstop Rock" or "Stoner Rock" - none of those tags can come close to encompassing the sound that these boys from Richmond, VA have pioneered. 'Three Stars' pays homage to Steppenwolf and The Guess Who while 'Struggling For Balance' unwinds into a trippy Doors-like tune, but other than that, the second coming of the Southern Revival is upon us. Loud, dirty, dusty and sweaty rock 'n' roll forged the good old-fashioned way. Yes these songs sound better with a beer in your hand, and several already in your belly. But that's not meant to take anything away from their sober experience as 'Bear Baiting' and 'Lunar Eclipse' are tracks you just have to play for your friends, any day of the week. Behold the thunder that is ATP.
