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Interview: Canadian Artist Henry Taylor Channels the Spirit of Rock and Americana on New Album ‘SWEET THUNDER!’

April 4, 2025
William Brookson
Latest posts by William Brookson (see all)

Kitchener-Waterloo-based artist Henry Taylor delivers a high-voltage rock experience with “HUMMINGBIRD,” the explosive focus track from his sixth studio album, SWEET THUNDER! A departure from the gentle and delicate imagery often associated with its namesake, “HUMMINGBIRD” is a fan-favourite at Taylor’s live shows, showcasing his signature blend of rock ‘n’ roll, Americana, and folk rock.

“HUMMINGBIRD” was born on a back porch while Taylor and longtime songwriting partner Monique Montgomery were playing music with former bandmate Mark. A chance glance at a hummingbird feeder sparked an idea—chords turned into a chorus, lyrics fell into place, and within 40 minutes, the song was complete. The decision to push the track into full-blown rock territory sets it apart from other “HUMMINGBIRD”-titled songs, reflecting its dynamic energy and unconventional take on the theme.

SWEET THUNDER! was inspired by a serendipitous moment when Montgomery spotted a license plate reading “SWTTHNDR” on a blue Corvette. That moment perfectly encapsulated the album’s essence—a fusion of thunderous rock anthems and tender acoustic ballads. The album balances electrifying rock tracks like “HUMMINGBIRD” and “I DON’T HAVE A NAME” with the softer, folk-tinged melodies of “WITHOUT YOU” and “HEY OLD PAL.”

1. What did you enjoy most about the recording process of this new release?
What I most enjoyed was doing it in our own studio at our own pace. I didn’t have to worry about anyone rushing us to get a take or a feel. I like to get everyone in a full take, and there was never any pressure to do it right or pay extra for studio time. We could just record how we wanted.
2. Share a nugget of advice that has resonated with you most over the years.
Everyone’s perfection sounds different, so don’t be scared to be yourself.
3. Who would be your dream artist/band to co-headline a tour with?
Neil Young no matter who he’s rolling with – Crazy Horse, Chrome Hearts, or solo. I have loved Neil Young from the start. Our SWEET THUNDER! album cover even has a Zuma feel. 
4. What sets your music apart from others in your genre?
I think we have heavier songs than the norm for our style of music. Also, some of the lyrics are coming from a place of concern for people and the world. I think the song writing is unique – I take a female perspective a lot of the time because of my song writing partner, Monique Montgomery, who writes the lyrics. When you add a whole bunch of heavy electric guitars behind those words, you’ve got our sound.
5. Tell us what your favourite song is at the moment and why.
Honestly, it’s probably We’ll Get By written by Gary Louris, off his Vagabonds album. We’ve added it to our sets, so I’m playing it a lot. It’s one of those songs that touched me from the start and still does every time I hear it.

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