Lightning Threads may sit in the blues-rock world, but they are not especially traditionalist. The Sheffield trio have a lot more swagger than the standard UK blues-club sound. Their recent single Devil Inside Me oozes filthy guitar riffs, fuzz-led solos, and vocal hooks covered in grit.
The debut album Off That Lonely Road came out in 2023. Lightning Threads followed it with the Live At 100 Club in 2024, and their second studio album Trinkets arrived digitally on 1 May 2026. The band are out on the road with Blue Nation in September. Guitarist/vocalist Tom Jane (centre, above) joins for this week’s MetalTalk Lowdown.
What’s the most Metal thing you’ve ever done off stage?
Rocking Leeds Fest at 18 with glandular fever and strict no-drinking doctor’s orders.
What’s the worst gig you’ve ever played, and why?
Driving to Wales to play a festival to three people, to have a deer run in front of my van on the way home, and cost me £2K.
What’s the best gig you’ve ever played, and why?
Our first ever time playing The 100 Club, London was pretty special. A bucket list moment. Bringing so many people from our hometown.
Would you choose a platinum record or one perfect, legendary live show?
A show that would be talked about for years to come has to be up there. We’re all about moments and capturing a feeling with the audience. I would say this was our biggest goal.
What’s your greatest fear?
Failing and feeling like I could have done more. Deep, I know.
What’s the trait you most deplore in yourself?
Overthinking. A minor situation can become all-consuming.
What’s the trait you most deplore in other musicians?
Being Egotistical. Especially when the persona is very different from their reality. I do, however, think some level of ego is required to be a successful frontman.
Describe yourself in three words.
Confident. Unassuming. Nonconformist.
What’s your guiltiest pleasure?
Countdown.
What does a great riff feel like to write?
I think the best feeling ever is being in an empty room with loud amps screaming out a new riff. When it lands, everything else disappears.
What’s the worst thing a fan has ever said to you?
If you are wearing that hat tomorrow night, I’m not coming to the show.
He didn’t come.
What’s the worst thing a critic has ever said to you?
Do up that shirt. No one needs to see that much chest.
If you weren’t in music, what would you be doing?
Living in miserable sorrow.
What’s one album outside your genre you secretly love?
Lola Young – I’m Only F**king Myself.
What keeps you awake at night?
My bass player’s WhatsApp’s.
Riffs, royalties or recognition, if you had to choose?
Riffs. Forever laying that loud guitar out there.
How do you want to be remembered?
A respected musician and family man who forever chased the muse and good life in pursuit of true happiness.
What’s the most important lesson the road has taught you?
The world’s a big place full of amazing, crazy folk. Build the network and surround yourself with good people.
What happens when the music stops?
Everything stops.
