Thunder and Lightning

The song "Thunder and Lightning" by Giant from their 1992 album Time to Burn is a fiery track that captures the raw energy of hard rock with a romantic twist. Co-written by vocalist/guitarist Dann Huff and Van Stephenson, the song’s lyrics pulse with passion, likening the spark of love to a storm’s electric charge. According to a 1992 interview in Kerrang! magazine, Dann Huff described the track as “a gut-punch of emotion,” inspired by a late-night jam session where the band was experimenting with heavier riffs and a sultry vibe. The song’s recording process was intense, with producer Terry Thomas pushing the band to layer gritty guitar tones over a driving rhythm section, creating what Huff called “a sonic lightning bolt.” Though not as commercially successful as the album’s lead single “Chained,” “Thunder and Lightning” became a fan favorite at live shows, with its anthemic chorus igniting crowds. A rare piece of trivia: the song’s bridge was almost cut due to time constraints, but bassist Mike Brignardello fought to keep it, arguing it was the “heart of the storm.”

Giant’s journey began in 1987 when brothers Dann and David Huff, both seasoned Nashville session musicians, decided to form a band that could blend their love for melodic rock with hard-hitting energy. Dann, a guitarist known for his work with artists like Michael Jackson and Madonna, brought a polished yet fiery edge to the group, while drummer David provided a rock-solid backbone. They recruited bassist Mike Brignardello and keyboardist Alan Pasqua, completing the lineup that would define Giant’s early sound. Their debut album, Last of the Runaways, released in 1989, spawned the hit power ballad “I’ll See You in My Dreams,” which peaked at No. 20 on the Billboard Hot 100. This success gave them the momentum to craft Time to Burn, a bolder, heavier record that showcased their growth as songwriters and performers. Dann’s reputation as a session player opened doors, but it was the band’s chemistry and relentless touring that built their cult following in the AOR and hard rock scenes.

Giant’s official online presence is anchored by their website, where fans can find updates, discography details, and merchandise. Their Facebook page is active, sharing throwback photos, tour memories, and occasional posts about new projects. On Instagram, they post nostalgic content like vintage concert posters and behind-the-scenes shots, engaging with fans who still rave about their early ‘90s heyday. Their X account is less frequent but features interactions with fans and retweets of rock-related content. For fan communities, the Giant Rock Fans Facebook group is a vibrant hub where Zoo Freaks and other devotees share bootleg live recordings, discuss favorite tracks like “Thunder and Lightning,” and organize meetups at tribute band shows. Another fan-driven site, Giant Fan Zone, offers a deep dive into the band’s history, with rare interviews and fan-submitted stories that keep the spirit of Giant alive.