So, the Street Dogs have found themselves on Hellcat and have a new record out. And it’s good. Really good.
I saw the Street Dogs on tour last year in Austria, and their support, Dead To Me, blew them off the stage that day. They were a good band, but had a swagger about them that wasn’t particularly backed up by their set on stage. Well, I would stick my neck out and say they have become a better band. Sure, the accusation levelled against them has always been that they are a bit of a parody of older bands, but they are damn good at what they do – catchy street punk.
Almost every tune on this record has its own charm. It’s all massively reminiscent of many other bands from previous decades, but there is no pretension involved – the Skids cover on the record proves that the band wear their influences proudly. The whole album is saturated with ringing urgency – amazing production by the same guy who records Bouncing Souls (incidentally, same hat shop too do you think?) has made this sound fatter than everyone the most discerning of yo’ mamas.
This, people, is essential street punk listening. Simple as.
Mike