The Black Moods

The Black Moods – who describe themselves as “modern-day torchbearers of ageless rock & roll” – visited the Arizona PBS studios to play “Bad News” and “Sunshine,” both from their 2020 album “Sunshine.” From their start in the Arizona desert, the band has toured across North America.

According to the band’s website, the group isn’t looking to reinvent the wheel: “Instead, they’re piling into a vehicle that’s existed for decades, souping up the engine to suit their contemporary needs and steering those wheels toward their own rock & roll horizon.”

The band formed in Tempe, inspired by local heroes like the Gin Blossoms and Roger Clyne & the Peacemakers, but their musical roots started early. Perhaps from birth: Singer and lead guitarist Josh Kennedy said the story told in his family is that his mother went into labor during one of his dad’s gigs. “It was a house of music and love and awesomeness,” he said.

Music was also a family affair for bassist Jordan Hoffman, who grew up singing in church choirs and learning guitar from his dad. “We had a family band called Infinity,” he said with a chuckle. The love of music started when he when he was very young, he said. “And I clung on. I never let go.”

Percussionist Chico Diaz was inspired by a drummer in a school talent show – something Hoffman hopes The Black Moods do for their listeners.

“When we play live, I want people to walk away feeling inspired,” Hoffman said. “Hopefully we can do that to some kid – or an adult! Inspire them to play and create music.”

All three agree that performing together feels comfortable, as though everything else melts away. “I’m with my brothers,” Diaz said, gesturing to his bandmates.