A force of nature just blew through New York City, one consisting of wind, lighting, and of course, Thunderpussy. The four piece rock n roll outfit out of Seattle, Washington (Who appear on Pearl Jam guitarist Mike McCready’s HockeyTalkter Records) played a series of intimate and intense shows in New York. And after the path of sonic destruction they left in their wake, they won’t be playing those tiny gigs for much longer. The band was kind of enough to give me a quick peak into the wild and witty world that is Thunderpussy during a interview while they tour England.
Thunderpussy
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So let’s get the obvious out of the way: that name. Just how did you decide on Thunderpussy?
We could ask you the same question… but I mean, whiskey does go with everything. There was no pondering or deliberation on the title of the project. It just came down to us through the ether; like a lightening bolt from Zeus, like the Lady of the Lake wielding Excalibur, like a sexually transmitted disease you never wanted…
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How did the band come together?
The whole “starting a cult and making a quick fortune” thing didn’t work out, so, you know, plan- B!
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Who do you count as musical influences?
Tina Turner’s legs. Elvis’ upper lip. Johnny Cash’s middle finger. Nancy’s boots. Bowie’ blue eye. Prince’s… well, you know…
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Do you ever feel people heaping the expectation on you, as an all-female rock band, to have a feminist message? From what I can tell Thunderpussy is all about having a good time rather than carrying any kind of torch.
The only torch we hold is a hot flame reminder that rock n roll is still alive and burning strong.
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You’ve just released your first single, under the HockeyTalker label. How’s it been having one of the world’s legendary guitarists in your corner? Has that influenced your sound in any way or is Mike letting you do what you do best?
You mean Mark… right? His name isn’t Mark?! Oh fuck.
Thunderpussy with Mike McCready
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Your single, “Velvet Noose”, sounds like a big “fuck you” to complacency. What keeps you all from getting too comfortable?
Well being poor doesn’t hurt. You know this working musician thing isn’t as glamorous as one might think!
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Your show on Sunday was one furious explosion from the moment you took the stage. Is there anything you do to get revved up before letting loose on the crowd?
Blood of virgins. Works every time.
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Article: Omar Kasrawi
