More Than Just a Thursday: Throwdown Thursday Delivers a Punchy Bluegrass Debut
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
From the quiet intimacy of a living room jam session to the bold proclamation of a debut single, Throwdown Thursday has arrived with a fierce, unmistakable sound. Born from the shared passion of five seasoned musicians during the global pause of 2020, this group is living proof that true musical chemistry can be forged in the unlikeliest of circumstances. Their debut track, “More Than Tell Me,” isn’t just an introduction; it’s a powerful statement of purpose that honors tradition while carving out a dynamic new space in the bluegrass landscape.
The band’s all-star lineup sets an immediate tone of expectation. Fiddler and vocalist Kati Penn Jenkins, known for her powerful and emotive presence, fronts the group with a voice that is both commanding and tender. She is joined by an equally impressive cast: the dextrous banjo work of Justin Jenkins, the thoughtful mandolin and harmony vocals of Evan Maynard, the rhythmic foundation of guitarist Ronald Mosley, and the solid bass lines from Kyle Perkins. The collective experience of these players, who have lent their talents to some of the genre’s most respected names, is evident in every note. The result is a sound that feels both incredibly polished and profoundly authentic, a rare combination that only true veterans can achieve.
Evan Maynard’s songwriting shines on “More Than Tell Me,” a track that fully embodies the “raw emotion and melodic power” the band promises. The song opens with a melodic weave of mandolin and fiddle, setting a melancholic yet hopeful mood before Kati Penn Jenkins’s vocal enters, rich with feeling and conviction. The arrangement is masterfully executed, with each instrument given space to breathe and contribute to the song’s emotional arc. Justin Jenkins’s banjo provides a vibrant, percussive drive, while the interplay between Maynard’s mandolin and Jenkins’s fiddle creates a compelling dialogue. This is not just a song about a message; it’s a song that tells a story through its very composition, building from a heartfelt whisper to a full-throated, passionate throwdown that feels earned and cathartic.
Ultimately, “More Than Tell Me” is more than a single; it’s a testament to the power of friendship, shared purpose, and a deep respect for the art form. Throwdown Thursday has successfully channeled their impromptu jam sessions into a cohesive and compelling work of art. The song stands as a powerful first chapter for a group that is clearly destined for great things. Listeners are given a tantalizing glimpse of the full-length album, and it’s a promise of music that is both deeply rooted and fiercely original.