Today, the supercollab rock ensemble THIS WILD DARKNESS releases "The Wild Darkness," the second single from their forthcoming five-track concept EP, The Notorious Memphis Rains, set to drop on October 25. Fans can also look forward to a limited-edition vinyl version accompanying the digital release.
Stream "The Wild Darkness" here.
Pre-order The Notorious Memphis Rains here.
Watch the "The Wild Darkness" visualizer here.
Featuring Scotti Hill of Skid Row fame, known for his heavy metal expertise, the track sees Hill trading his shredding skills for evocative slide guitar melodies that echo the ambiance of classic Western cinema. "The Wild Darkness" places the EP's main character, Memphis Rains, at a critical juncture, with lead vocalist Tommy Marz conveying the character's internal dilemmas through powerful vocals. The song artfully blends intricate guitar work, contrasting gentle acoustics with sharp electric riffs.
"I couldn't have been more flattered when Tommy asked me to contribute to this record and project," shares Scotti Hill. "It's been so much fun!"
United by a moment of musical brilliance, THIS WILD DARKNESS—helmed by musical alchemist Tommy Marz—is a collective born from the sheer joy of creation. The group brings together legendary musicians from diverse backgrounds to craft something both poignant and dynamic. The lineup boasts talents like Arion Salazar (Third Eye Blind), Chuck Bartels (Sturgill Simpson), Jack Hues (Wang Chung), Jeff Schroeder (The Smashing Pumpkins), Scotti Hill (Skid Row), and Slim Gambill (Lady A), all contributing their vast experiences to this powerful EP.
Debuting on September 18 with support from Guitar World, the EP's lead single "Dawn Rider" offered the first glimpse into the narrative of Memphis Rains. The track features a mesmerizing guitar solo from longtime Smashing Pumpkins guitarist Jeff Schroeder.
"'Dawn Rider' represents the journey and realization of Memphis's actions and mistakes. It's him trying to make a run for it, uncertain if escape is possible," explains Tommy Marz.
Stream "Dawn Rider" here.
Watch the "Dawn Rider" visualizer here.
The project's title hints at the profound themes explored within, drawing inspiration from the historic tragedies of Memphis, TN, and West Memphis, AR. Events like the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the passing of Elvis Presley, and the haunting story of the West Memphis Three served as a foundation for Marz in crafting the character "Memphis Rains," symbolizing the collective sorrow of these moments.
"The entirety of this project is a concept based on searching for something you desire and being willing to do whatever it takes to obtain it," says Tommy Marz, who also produced the EP. "It also delves into the unforeseen consequences of those actions during the pursuit."
The collaboration's roots trace back to a 2021 charity show, "For The Crew," covered by Rolling Stone, Guitar World, and others, aiming to raise funds for the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund. Jeff Schroeder, Scotti Hill, and Tommy Marz concluded the event with an electrifying jam of KISS's "Cold Gin." The show, which raised over $15,000 for road crew members affected by the pandemic, also highlighted collaborations between Schroeder and Salazar, as well as Hues and Marz. These connections laid the groundwork for a group that would reunite and create together in the years following. Marz and Schroeder have since collaborated on multiple tracks, achieving four entries on Billboard’s Adult Contemporary Mainstream Radio Airplay and Digital Sales charts.
"Tommy made it easy to be relaxed and creative," reflects Chuck Bartels on the collaborative process. "I felt like nothing was off the table, part-wise." Nashville-based guitarist Slim Gambill, known for his work with Lady A, adds with enthusiasm, "Finally! I get a rock track sent to me where I get to take the gloves off!"
