Sergeant Thunderhoof’s fifth album, The Ghost of Badon Hill, out on November 15th, marks a significant moment in the band’s evolution. Known for their heavy brooding sound and mythological themes, the latest release narrows its scope while expanding its sonic horizons. Drawing on local folklore from Somerset, the album sets its sights on the 4th-century Battle of Badon, blending history, fantasy, and raw storytelling into a cohesive and fascinating concept.
What makes The Ghost of Badon Hill great is how Sergeant Thunderhoof refines their craft without losing their edge. With frontman Dan Flitcroft delivering powerful and gritty vocals and the band consciously limiting song lengths to ensure every riff, lyric, and melody serves the album’s vision, each song feels deliberate.
As Dan explains,
“In the past we’ve not had any limitations when it comes to song lengths and structures as we didn’t have a label calling the shots. But one thing that I knew was needed for this album was to set some boundaries. Foremost of which was the ability to get it onto two sides of vinyl, as opposed to us having to put most of our previous works onto double packages due to the sheer length of the songs.”
He continues,
“So, knowing that we only had 22 minutes or so per side to play with, it forced us to take the songs we had been jamming and sort the wheat from the chaff. Anything that felt unnecessary or superfluous was scrapped, with every moment on the record needing to justify its own place.”
With this focus, the band has created a tightly woven narrative of simple people rising to protect their land in a time of crisis. Dan calls The Ghost of Badon Hill their “most thoughtful release to date,” and it shows in the music’s intensity and clarity.
Guitarists Mark Sayer and Josh Gallop, the latter also serving as the album’s recording engineer, weave intricate melodies and searing solos throughout the album that create a rich and textured sonic landscape. Their dual guitar work is complemented by Jim Camp’s heavy, fuzzed-out bass lines and Darren Ashman’s thunderous drumming, which provide the backbone for the album’s massive sound. Tracks like “Badon” and “Blood Moon” explore wider dynamics while maintaining the band’s signature depth and groove.
The Ghost of Badon Hill will be appreciated by those who enjoy concept-driven albums and deeply rooted musicality. It’s a journey through history and a sound that showcases Sergeant Thunderhoof at their most concentrated and powerful.
Catch Sergeant Thunderhoof live
- November 22nd – Saltbox, Nottingham
- November 23rd – Corporation, Sheffield
- January 31st – Planet Desert Rock Weekend, Las Vegas
- March 1st – Glastonbury Calling, Glastonbury
- March 13th – Hard Rock Hell Festival, Yarmouth
