By Scott Jeffrey
Dr. Dog might just be one of the longest running bands you have never heard of. Until now. These Pennsylvania, psychedelic, indie, rockers have been at it since 1999 and have just now released their sixth album.
Their latest release Be The Void has more of their 60’s lo-fi jams packaged up in a modern studio with an indie rock twist.
The opening track Lonesome has a very cool riff that sounds like its missing off of Beck’s album Odelay. A blues driven slide guitar and some good stomping drums make this a fine drinking song. Those that really enjoy the recent Beck material will really dig this track.
How Long Must I Wait has great single quality. The vocals weirdly remind me of Bob Marley. The style of harmony used in the chorus has a strange almost reggae style to it. This is an older sounding jam as well, I love the use of the harmonic notes that jump in and out of a funky bass line almost resembling steel drums.
The track Vampire sounds like something the band might play at the old sock hop. You could slow dance to it, but only if you were sucking face. This is an angry spiteful track, it sounds like it was a good release of some pent up frustration. Although it’s in two step form there are plenty of harder sounding guitar breaks and raw vocals to take the romance away.
Warrior Man Reminds me of Blur a bit, with the harmonies during verses and just the bass style, it is very reminiscent of their album 13.
The rest of the tracks do have their own intricacies that set them apart from one another. There isn’t necessarily filler on this album but there are standout singles and other songs that are alright for the occasional listen.
5/10
Take Away Thought: Have a listen if you are into Beck. The psychedelic new age 60’s sounds of doctor dog might not quite be for everyone. If you are curious at all start with How Long Must I Wait and Lonesome before going further with the album.
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