The Georgia Thunderbolts Announce “Rise Above It All” Album
The Georgia Thunderbolts are back with their highly-anticipated sophomore album, ‘Rise Above It All,’ slated for release on August 23rd via Mascot Records. Packed with 13 tracks, the album showcases the band’s signature blend of Southern rock, blues, and Americana, reflecting their profound growth as artists and individuals.
Lead vocalist TJ Lyle reflects on the album’s emotional depth, stating, “When you cut back on being a tough guy, more emotions can come through, and you hear that on this record.” He adds, “This album travels all musical genres.”
To celebrate the announcement, the band dropped the album’s latest single, “Stand Up,” along with a music video directed by Jim Arbogast. The track combines slithering guitar riffs and soaring vocals with a Southern rock flair, embodying themes of perseverance and faith. Lyle shares, “I believe this song is relatable to many. It was written with the mindset of overcoming an obstacle I was facing at the time.”
Despite humble beginnings, The Georgia Thunderbolts have emerged as torchbearers of Southern rock. From busking at gas stations to touring internationally, the band’s journey has been anything but ordinary. Comprised of TJ Lyle, Zach Everett, Bristol Perry, Logan Tolbert, and Riley Couzzourt, their music draws from diverse influences, spanning from 1960s singer-songwriter intimacy to arena-ready classic hard rock.
Reflecting on their upbringing and musical influences, Riley states, “As soon as TJ opens his mouth you know we’re from the South.” The band’s debut album, ‘Can We Get A Witness,’ garnered critical acclaim despite the challenges of the pandemic, earning over 6 million streams and praise from publications like Rolling Stone and Classic Rock.
The band’s live performances alongside rock icons like Black Stone Cherry and Deep Purple have shaped their sound and perspective. A transformative moment came during their 2022 European tour with Black Stone Cherry, where they experienced the power of their music resonating across borders.
“Hearing people sing our songs back to us felt like we were in the Twilight Zone,” TJ recalls. “All the growth and maturation over the past two and half years can be heard on ‘Rise Above It All.’ The 13-song collection is a flag-planting album, setting the stage for an exciting new chapter as The Georgia Thunderbolts continue to rise and resonate with audiences worldwide.”