Texas Headhunters unveil “Favored Nation”

Texas Headhunters have released their new song “Favored Nation,” coinciding with the arrival of their sophomore album, Rise and Shine, out October 9 via Hardcharger / Blue Élan Records.

The Texas blues rock trio, featuring Ian Moore, Johnny Moeller, and Jesse Dayton, return with their second album following their self-titled debut.

Written by Moore, “Favored Nation” opens with an uptempo shuffle before shifting into a Merseybeat-inspired groove. The song draws from Moore’s diverse musical influences, combining elements of blues, rock, and alternative music.

“Growing up in Austin, I got into mod rock and alternative,” Moore says. “Sure, I loved Howlin’ Wolf and Buddy Guy, but I also loved the Jam, Rockpile and X. That’s kind of what the song is about – how if you go looking for the truth, you realize you aren’t just one thing; you’re a combination of everything.”

Moore recently spoke with Blues Rock Review about his battle with spasmodic dysphonia, a neurological voice disorder that makes speaking difficult while leaving his ability to sing largely unaffected. During the interview, Moore discussed how the condition has impacted his life and career.

Watch the interview below.

“Favored Nation” is one of several original compositions featured on Rise and Shine. Dayton contributes “Cut N Run,” influenced by Freddie King and Billy Gibbons, along with the blues and psychobilly-inspired “I Did It Anyway.” Moeller takes the lead on “Drive You Crazy,” the title track, and the instrumental “Funky So N So.” Moore also contributes “Bigshot,” which draws inspiration from Bo Diddley.

Texas Headhunters once again self-produced the album, with Michael Archer on bass and Jay Moeller on drums. The band recorded the material with an emphasis on capturing the chemistry of their live performances.