Dr. Dog
S/T
**** out of *****
The Philadelphia, PA based Dr. Dog just seemed like one of those bands that were lifers, locked into delivering their easy flowing retro rock for eternity. When they announced the end of their touring life and members went their separate ways in 2021 it was quite surprising, and while technically the band didn't "break-up" it sure felt like no new Dr. Dog tunes were going to be released following 2018's Critical Equation.
Surprising in a much more positive sense is their semi-reunion, self-titled release finds the group, Toby Leaman – vocals, bass, Scott McMicken – vocals, guitar, Zach Miller – keys, Frank McElroy – guitar, vocals, Eric Slick – drums, back in top notch form. The time away has seemed to mellowed the outfit. These new songs are self assured and the band sounds committed to each other as the honesty, love and good vibes breeze through speakers.
The band have always been old souls in their sound, style and throwback love of 60's inspired rock, but with this new release they seemed to have matured. Slowed down tempos and direct lyrics dealing with 'enjoying every moment' arrive naturally and feel well earned throughout. The relaxed album still finds the band singing about nature/animals but also deeper human connections and growth.
Opening with "Authority" the group adds horns, bouncy keys and an upbeat sense of fun, "thumbing my nose on the rose of the thorn" rebelling against the title object. "Lost Ones" speaks to positive unity with finger snaps and an easy rolling groove while closer "Love Struck" brings on guest M. Ward, using bending strings, and sweet natural sounding percussion.
At times the self titled album can feel a bit derivative of past work, but just having anything new is a joy from the band. "Fat Dog" combines strings, light Caribbean grooves, and great bass/guitar lines for a winning result while the off-kilter soul of "Talk Is Cheap" keeps the odd sounds, yet honest delivery flowing.
The centerpiece of the album is a three song run of restrained offerings. "What a Night'll Do" is a slow waltzing piano ballad with added string work, while "Still Can't Believe" uses electro keys and echoing guitars with less success, but it is "Tell Your Friends" that is the real highlight. The tune is a dreamy swirling of keys, acoustic strums, light beats and a honest reckoning of loves, lost opportunities and aging with grace before the final line rings truest of all; a gorgeous tune.
Dr. Dog return to their Beach Boy roots via beautiful harmony work on "Fine White Lies" while "White Dove" is a punchy upbeat number that cooks along with McMicken leading the charge. "Handyman" finds Leaman playing with gender roles in song as well as shimmering guitars and unique percussion.
Whenever an established act releases a self-titled album it acts as a symbol of rebirth, a new direction or perhaps a last gasp. Thankfully this time the motivation is clear as Dr. Dog seems back in the saddle and as confident as ever. Even if it takes them another six years between records it is nice to know the boys still got it in them and enjoy making excellent music together.
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