devious dogs - the doghouse

Devious Dogs

The Doghouse
self-released; 2013

3.8 out of 5 

By Matt Jensen

When you think of a three-piece rock band you probably think that is made of up a guitar, bass, vocals and drums. This is the most standard format for rock but the Devious Dogs prove they don't need much low end because instead of a bassist they have an organist who rocks out on a Hammond. After listening to their eight songs on The Doghouse I have to say I didn't miss the bass at all. The organ more than makes up for it and seems absolutely essential for the type of music they are making. 

At the heart of it they are a hard rock band that delivers songs which have the essence of rock and roll smothered all over them. The songs would sound great in your local pub as you are slamming back a shot of Jameson ready to take on whatever the night offers.  All in all the songs are fun, unpretentious, have attitude and embody what old fashioned rock and roll is all about.

The bands starts strong out of the gates with “We’re Bringing Back The Charleston,” with a distorted bluesy guitar riff that sounds at home against the howling organ and crashing drums. There isn't much time to rest with this one as it is an energetic ride that doesn't stop until it's over. Additionally there isn't much time to get bored as there are a myriad of parts in this song that keep you at the edge of your seat.

“Double Entendre” utilizes a sing-a-long type chorus along with sprinkles of surf rock while “Jazz Singer” comes at you with a classic A-G F-E guitar progression. The title of “epic song” belongs to the seven-plus minute “The Robbery” as it contains down home and dirty blues guitar and vocals that growl and snarl. Coincidentally, their shortest song  “Suicide Girl” closes out the album. It is a short but powerful song as it contains elements of punk and rock.

The Doghouse is an impressive debut that is best listened to at 2:00 in the morning in the midst of a drinking binge. It is recommended. 

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