Artist: Dead Dog
Title: Dead Dog
Released: 2012 (reprint from 2008)
Label: This Will Be Our Summer
Format: LP
Genre: Punk, indie
If I’m not mistaken, this is Dead Dog’s third release (first two are available via cassette and vinyl on Let’s Pretend). Here, we find the band hanging out in Athens, GA, jamming as loudly as possible, employing feedback and distortion in spots like it’s going out of style. This is the finest blend of indie, punk and pop I’ve heard come out of that town since… I’m not sure when.
This is some noisy awesomeness. Tracks like “Hate Song” and “Lil Miss ICU” are some of the most in your face tracks on here. They’re full of blissful feedback, distortion/lo fi and vocals that are half shouted, half sung. It’s a mix that is reminiscent of the underground punk/pop of old.
Lyrically, each track has impressive strength. They’re poetic, but not overly so, and are to-the-point. If I were to compare the sound of this album, it might remind you of the Raincoats, the Ramones, a more punk oriented Breeders… that might only be scratching the surface though. The guitar is vivid, loud and fuzzy. The vocals are strong, roaring and awesome. The pace is fast and the overall sound is punky-fresh with some light melodies. So, what’s not to like?
It’s punk for the 21st century but it doesn’t forsake its roots from the late 70s and 80s. It’s refreshing and nostalgic all at once. Should you buy this? Definitely. This band is fantastic on vinyl, to boot. Go get it!
4.8 out of 5.
The Far Out Fox 