Our favorite band of Dominican friars is back with an incredibly fresh tune for 2024. It’s been a long two years of waiting since they released their last album, Holy Ghost Power, but they’ve returned with a brand new single, “Justify You,” and the promise of their fourth studio album.
Written by the Very Reverend Thomas Joseph White, who has previously provided vocals for “Bourbon, Bluegrass, and the Bible,” the tune is driven by White’s unique singing style that places more emphasis on attitude than diction. In 2023, White was awarded one of the Dominican order’s highest honors, earning the title Master of Sacred Theology. Thankfully, this role has not prevented him from his fine work with The Hillbilly Thomists, as he just gave us one of their best songs.
“Justify You” opens up with a percussion line that reminds of the funky hit “Low Rider,” by War, and the piece is just as laid back and fun. The music is accented by a flawless showing from the band’s slide guitarist that lends the air of a lazy afternoon in the summer heat.
The song was released with a music video that features footage of The Hillbilly Thomists on pilgrimage in Italy. They treat their audience to many of the fine sights they beheld on their trip, from massive, marble-filled churches and various priceless works of art to the faces of the people whom they traveled with and met along the way. At each stop, these Dominicans brought their instruments with them, giving impromptu performances on Italian streets and outside cafes; the perfect backdrop to such a relaxed tune.
“Justify You” is the first single from the band’s upcoming album Marigold, which will be released on July 28. The Hillbilly Thomists will be on tour promoting the album when it drops, hitting venues from Seattle to Atlanta, with tons of stops in between. The tour is actually starting in Indianapolis, where they will play at the National Eucharistic Congress on July 18. Check out their website for a complete list of stops.
Be sure to follow The Hillbilly Thomists on YouTube or your preferred streaming service, so you don’t miss the album release!
