Photo Credit: Jean Frank

After a 13-year lapse in deliverables, Delta blues favorite Tab Benoit has exclusively shared the first listen as his latest bout of studio work. Titled I Hear Thunder, the long-awaited collection, will be available on August 30 via Whiskey Bayou Records. As a preview of what’s to come, the guitar great has unveiled the official music video for the first single off the LP, “Why, Why,” Benoit’s questioning of society and the parameters that withhold equity. 

Benoit’s questioning of his surroundings began with the onset of his musical separation (2001), in a conscious effort to shift focus toward improving his community and, in turn, the wetlands of his native Houma, La. Adopting the title of a conservationist, Benoit received notable accolades, including the prestigious Governor’s Award. Amalgamating his two loves, the artist formed Voices of the Wetlands to further his plight. 

Striking a sweet spot between eco-warrior and musician on a mission, Benoit created Voice of the Wetlands All-Stars, showcasing the pioneers of a sound and style indigenous to Louisiana’s Wetlands, with help from Cyril Neville, Anders Osborne, George Porter Jr., Big Chief Monk Boudreaux, Johnny Vidacovich, Johnny Sansone, and Waylon Thibodeaux–an elite list of talent, some of which appear across I Hear Thunder, including Osborne, who adds his touch to all 10 tracks. 

As the initial preview of the late-summer release, “Why, Why” functions as Benoit’s response to the lack of connection society has as a global community, with the urgency of his quandary coming through via the lyrics: “We got to love one another/ We’re all just sisters and brothers” bolstered by the rumbling of blues-weighted instrumentals. A midsection guitar solo opens up the track, harnessed to the consistent backbeat of the rhythm section to uplift Benoit’s playing and Osborne’s complimentary licks. 

A striking visual piece, Benoit sets the scene using vintage clips from popularized films and historical moments in order to illuminate humanity’s strife and continual efforts to do better and be better, individually and as a collective. Scroll down to watch the official music video for “Why, Why.” 

Pre-order I Hear Thunder. Benoit is currently on the road and will remain there past the LP release. To view tour dates and purchase tickets, follow this link.