I must admit that ‘Thunderlust’ is my first encounter with Moon Shot, hailing from Finland. It is already their third album. I had to play catch up with the band and quickly managed to listen to their debut ‘Confession’ (2021) and ‘The Power’ (2024). Had I missed out not hearing before of these “alternative” rockers? Yes, most certainly. Especially ‘The Power’ I find quite impressive. After hearing ‘Thunderlust’ for a whole week I believe that both albums are close to each other, although the new chapter of Moon Shot seems to have slightly better songs and certainly more body.
EXPERIENCE GALORE
Singer Ville Malja, guitarist Yussi Ylikoski, bassist Henkka Seppala and drummer Mikko Hakila gathered experience galore in previous bands such as Children Of Bodom, Lapko and Disco Ensemble before getting together to form Moon Shot in 2019. And that experience shines through in their releases so far. On ‘Thunderlust’ the band really excels with a potent mix of heavy rock, radio friendly (pop) rock and alternative grit, full of variationand high energy. I find it hard to determine what the main style of Moon Shot really is as the group jumps all over the planet with their musical cocktail. I mean, the single “Hey Boy’’ has this chorus that just manages to get inside your head and aftera second spin I found myself humming along with this potential radio hit. But then “The Hammer Of Changes’’ is a fast heavy rocker with stunning guitarwork while “False Heroes” has an energy level that is almost second to none. It is like a firm punch in the face.
MAIN MAN
Although this album is a band effort ofcourse, it strikes me that vocalist Ville Malja plays the most important role of all the four musicians. One way or another he knows how to put all the accents in the right places, making most songs very accessible indeed. He displays a certain subtleness over most of the songs that makes you take notice, whether you like it or not. Listen to the manner how he “paints” tracks such as ”Final Call” (album closer and a sensitive ballad) into something remarkable indeed. For me Ville is the main man of Moon Shot as he is the guy who steers the band along with his style of singing. He combines aggression with a subtle touch that gives Moon Shot at times a certain ‘je ne sais qua’.
AUDIENCE
Hearing this album, I wonder what kind of audience Moon Shot could reach with their style and sound. Certain poppy elements are there but Moon Shot is also at times rough and tough. I like their style, no doubt about that. If you are a rocker with a varied taste I guess ‘Thunderlust’ is a record you should at least give a chance. The album is catchy, energetic, subtle, accessible and heavy. Add to that a slight pop element on top. You can’t go wrong with Moon Shot.
Report by Michel van de Moosdijk
