“Baptism Of Fire” - Jonny Thorns
Photo Credit: Artist EPK
Every artist needs that one track that defines them, and for Jonny Thorns, “Baptism Of Fire” feels exactly like that moment. Written in late 2022 on an acoustic guitar and later brought to life at Blast Recording Studios in Newcastle with producer Andy Bell and drummer James Wake, the song doesn’t just showcase Thorns’ musicianship—it captures his story, his roots, and the way he sees the world.
From the opening bars, “Baptism Of Fire” feels alive with energy. It’s built around bright, intricate guitar parts that shimmer in the mix, giving the track a distinctly modern indie rock edge. Think the driving melodic lift of Seagirls, the atmospheric sprawl of The War on Drugs, and the punchy immediacy of Catfish and the Bottlemen—all channeled into a sound that still manages to feel uniquely Jonny’s own. The production transforms what started as a simple acoustic ballad into something soaring and expansive, full of layered guitars, synth textures, and, most crucially, Wake’s powerhouse drumming, which anchors the track with both urgency and lift.
But what makes “Baptism Of Fire” stand out isn’t just its sonic muscle—it’s the heart behind it. Lyrically, the song is rooted in Thorns’ reflections on family: embracing differences, seeking connection and approval, and finding love in the patchwork of perspectives that shape who we are. It’s personal, but written in a way that feels universal—anyone who’s ever wrestled with family dynamics or leaned on their loved ones for strength will recognize the emotion in it.
There’s also something about the simplicity here that’s refreshing. The melody is catchy without being cloying, the arrangement full without being overblown. You get the sense that Thorns and Bell knew exactly when to build the song up and when to let it breathe. That balance makes it not only a strong single, but also—as Thorns himself has said—a perfect opener for a full-length record. It has that “first track” energy: an invitation to step into his world.
As far as milestones go, “Baptism Of Fire” feels like more than just another release. It’s the sound of an artist finding his footing, experimenting with scale, and realizing that his songs can carry more weight than he might’ve first imagined. For fans of modern indie rock with both heart and heft, this is one of those tracks you’ll want to loop, learning something new with every spin.
Jonny Thorns may hail from Durham, but with a track like this, his music feels poised to travel far beyond home turf. “Baptism Of Fire” isn’t just a song—it’s a statement: here I am, and I’ve got stories worth listening to.
“Baptism Of Fire” is available now on all major streaming platforms
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