Founded in 2012, Blacktop Mojo is an American rock band that hails from Palestine, Texas. The band was formed by lead vocalist Matt James and drummer Nathan Gillis, who were later joined by Ryan Kiefer on lead guitar, Kenneth Irwin on rhythm guitar, and Matt Curtis on bass. Their music is an amalgamation of hard rock, post-grunge, and Southern rock influences, leading to a unique sound that has helped them gain a growing fanbase.
The band made their initial mark with their debut album, “I Am,” released in 2014. This album set the tone for their future endeavors, presenting a blend of hard-hitting rock anthems and soulful ballads. While the album did not break into mainstream charts, it received positive reviews and gained the band a dedicated local following. Following their debut, the band focused on honing their live performances, playing in various venues around Texas and the surrounding states.
2017 was a pivotal year for Blacktop Mojo, marked by the release of their sophomore album “Burn the Ships.” The album garnered more attention than their debut, both critically and commercially. Songs like “Where the Wind Blows” started getting radio play, and the band’s cover of Aerosmith’s “Dream On” even caught the attention of Steven Tyler himself, which gave them a significant publicity boost.
As they moved towards their third album, “Under the Sun” in 2019, the band continued to evolve their sound. Infusing elements of grunge, country, and alternative rock, the album was well-received and showcased the band’s growth as musicians and songwriters. Their latest album, simply titled “Blacktop Mojo,” was released in 2021 and leans into modern rock territories yet retains the band’s signature southern flair.
I Am
Released 2014
“I Am” is Blacktop Mojo’s debut album that marked the beginning of the band’s journey into the rock scene. A raw mixture of post-grunge, classic rock, and metal, the album sets the tone for the band’s future endeavors. The music is heavy yet melodic, showcasing the band’s wide-ranging influences, from Soundgarden to Black Sabbath.
The album features Matt James on vocals, Nathan Gillis on drums, Ryan Kiefer on lead guitar, Kenneth Irwin on rhythm guitar, and Matt Curtis on bass. “I Am” was produced by Philip Mosley and recorded at Audio Dallas Recording Studio, Texas. The recording took place over several weeks in the spring of 2014.
CD Track Listings:
- “Open Road” – 3:54
- “I Am” – 4:20
- “Trouble On The Rise” – 3:39
- “Why” – 4:02
- “Next Bullet” – 4:01
- “Johnny’s Song” – 4:05
- “October” – 5:06
- “Set It Free” – 4:25
- “Edge of Tomorrow” – 4:31
- “Texas Flood” – 5:47
Burn the Ships
Released 2017
“Burn the Ships” is a significant progression from their first album, demonstrating a maturing sound and more complex compositions. The album has a robust mix of Southern rock, grunge, and metal, allowing the band to reach a wider audience and solidifying their place in the modern rock landscape.
Featuring the same lineup as their first album, “Burn the Ships” was produced by Philip Mosley and co-produced by Jimmy Johnson. It was recorded at Sound Emporium Studios in Nashville between October and December 2016.
CD Track Listings:
- “Where The Wind Blows” – 4:09
- “End Of Days” – 4:43
- “Burn The Ships” – 4:45
- “Prodigal” – 4:19
- “Shadows On The Wall” – 3:45
- “Sweat” – 3:29
- “Pyromaniac” – 4:09
- “8000 Lines” – 4:49
- “Dog On A Leash” – 3:33
- “Make A Difference” – 4:02
- “Chains” – 4:05
- “Dream On” – 4:30
- “Underneath” – 4:10
Under The Sun
Released 2019
“Under the Sun” serves as a potent third installment in Blacktop Mojo’s discography. The album infuses elements of hard rock, grunge, and even a bit of country to create a cohesive sonic landscape. Songs vary from heavy, anthemic tunes to softer, introspective pieces, providing a full-bodied listening experience.
The album retains the core lineup of Matt James on vocals, Nathan Gillis on drums, Ryan Kiefer on lead guitar, Kenneth Irwin on rhythm guitar, and Matt Curtis on bass. Produced by Philip Mosley, the album was recorded at Rosewood Studios in Tyler, Texas, in the spring of 2019.
CD Track Listings:
- “Lay It on Me” – 3:51
- “Set It Free” – 4:21
- “Come Get Your Coat” – 3:29
- “Keep” – 3:35
- “It Won’t Last” – 4:21
- “All Mine Now” – 4:15
- “Can’t Sleep” – 4:31
- “The Lashing (Ghost)” – 4:01
- “The Void” – 4:37
- “Under the Sun” – 3:42
Blacktop Mojo
Released 2021
Their latest album, simply titled “Blacktop Mojo,” is a culmination of years of experience and artistic growth. The album leans more into the alternative and modern rock territories while still incorporating the band’s signature southern flair. It encapsulates the essence of Blacktop Mojo, summarizing their evolution while setting the stage for future endeavors.
The album featured Matt James on vocals, Nathan Gillis on drums, Ryan Kiefer on lead guitar, Kenneth Irwin on rhythm guitar, and Matt Curtis on bass. It was produced by Philip Mosley and recorded at Rosewood Studios in Tyler, Texas, in late 2020.
CD Track Listings:
- “Wicked Woman” – 3:29
- “Bed Tundy” – 4:13
- “Rewind” – 3:55
- “Jealousy” – 4:10
- “Strain” – 3:21
- “Signal Flares” – 4:12
- “Bar’s Been Raised” – 3:45
- “End of the Line” – 4:38
- “Jasper” – 5:02
- “Watch Me Drown” – 4:15
Complete List Of Blacktop Mojo Albums And Discography article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2023
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