Dr. Dog having evolved from a band whose primary creative outlet was the album-making process into one that favored the energy of their live performances, they knew they wanted to document the new dynamic they had develope... more »d on the road. Producer Rob Schnapf (Beck, Elliott Smith) was brought in to help peel back the intricate arrangements of last album Fate to reveal the raw immediacy of a tight five-man unit honing their craft.« less
Dr. Dog having evolved from a band whose primary creative outlet was the album-making process into one that favored the energy of their live performances, they knew they wanted to document the new dynamic they had developed on the road. Producer Rob Schnapf (Beck, Elliott Smith) was brought in to help peel back the intricate arrangements of last album Fate to reveal the raw immediacy of a tight five-man unit honing their craft.
Kyle Freeland | Mountain Home AFB, Idado USA | 04/13/2010
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Seriously, whats the deal? Dr. Dog remains one of those bands with reviews that are average at best. Listening to alot of music now days, its refreshing to year some bands that just play. Not a concept album, and not a album trying to find something new in their sound. This is music that you want to listen to when you just shared a bottle of your favorite alchoholic beverage and just talk about music, and when you know the words you can't help but sing. Dr. Dog have made a style, bar-indie music, and i don't mean this in a bad context. Lyricly, the album is superb. The bonus tracks alone are stand outs on the album. "It" gave me chills, some of the best words i've heard in a song. Getting to the point, these guys make good music, plain and simple. The best release to date by Dr. Dog and will surely be one of the best of 2010.
Listen to "Where'd did all the time go"? and "shame shame""
"I do believe that there's no more tricks up my sleeve"
Jeff Loudon | Nashville, TN | 04/09/2010
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Formed in Philadelphia in 1999, Dr. Dog has built a career around an eclectic style. They have ignored popular music staying true to themselves; much like My Morning Jacket, the band they began opening for that truly put them on the map. At just under forty minutes long, Dr. Dog has released an album which is in many very similar to its predecessor, 2008's Fate. The biggest difference is that Dr. Dog have brought in talent to help with the production for the first time. Co-producing this record is none other than Rob Schnapf who is best known for his work with Beck, Elliot Smith and the Vines.
With backup harmonies consisting mainly of "Ooo"s and "Aaah"s, Dr. Dog often sounds like they're from a different era. A cross between Wilco and Spoon with a hint of the Flaming Lips, Dr. Dog is incredibly good at releasing laid back, catchy tunes. Opening with "Stranger," a simple bass groove lays the foundation for a track that declares "I do believe that there's no more tricks up my sleeve." This statement, as far as the production is concerned, holds true for the vast majority of the album. Although the occasional eccentric effect or background instrumentation has always made Dr. Dog intriguing, the songwriting is the feature of Shame, Shame and they don't disappoint.
It is possible that after extensive touring, Dr. Dog wanted to record an album that more closely captured the feeling of a live performance. Although the song "Later" throws a lot of effects into the mix, the album as a whole sounds like an undiscovered vinyl that finally fell into the hands of someone who was willing to distribute it. Fans of their previous work will love this record, but for those unfamiliar with Dr. Dog, this is a great album to get started with.
Similar Artists: Wilco, Spoon
Track Suggestion: "I Only Wear Blue""
A quietly perfect little rock gem
Charlie Quaker | Normal, IL. | 04/29/2010
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Classic, 60s/70s rooted pop songs with great, stick-in-your-head melodies & tight, compelling
arrangements. Dr. Dog's songs are simple & unaffected by current trends; the kind of album
that's rarely in the spotlight, but always there when you need it. Similarities to Wilco, Beatles,
"Except the album cover, which is little bit unclear what it is supposed to mean or just a bad shot, the music is the best, from surprise to surprise. Actually, this is the first time I listen to this band, but trust me 'don't wait and buy the album'. it takes you days to off your chairs."
Like a worn-in sneaker
M. Bergmann | sf, ca | 04/15/2010
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Perfect soundtrack to a warm summer night with friends and some booze. This one took a few listens for me to put it on the same field as the other albums, but sure enough the more I listened (just like everyone of their albums) the more warm and inviting it became. To be overly critical about Dr. Dog would miss the point of why I like them. Do they not try hard enough to evolve as a band? I don't know but don't care. It's the effortless way they seem to carry their music which brings integrity to me. Pull up a chair, relax, and listen to another fine installment Dr Dog has produced. And I second the comment about their live show, they can get down and funky."