DOGDAD drops debut record

New on the scene, DOGDAD is an enigmatic outfit that made an entrance earlier this year with the debut single “Dewar’s Good Time,” unveiling their sound with an alternative rock sound that deftly balanced intricate guitar work and dynamic vocals that cut between intense bursts and elegant melodic lines. Followed up by singles two and three with “Hospice” and “Ouroboros,” they’ve been building up to their most ambitious project to date; their brand new debut record, the curiously titled SWAN DIVE PITY PARTY.

Serving up seven tracks, the new album delivers the perfect run through of the Austin-based band’s highly original rock sound, fusing retro influenced styles of hardcore, post punk and emo rock, filtered through their own cutting edge sonic lens that brings their modern sound into sharp focus. Lightly crunching guitars, lively drums and theatrical vocal performances all collide on this forward-thinking and energising release that crowns an impressive breakout year for this new outfit.

Opened by “Hands on a Hardbody,” the album kicks off with the pulse of a bass guitar line while the strike of snare ushers in a punching beat and lightly crunchy guitar backing. Cutting back to drums and bass, the vocals glide in to thread hushed leads as the guitars drop in and out throughout. Building up to a crescendo where the vocals rise to belted lines, the arrangement erupts with a flurry of energy, crafting a rousing finale to the track.

Lead single “Dewar’s Good Time” follows with its twanging guitar chord intro before launching into an all out rock onslaught of powerful vocal cries and pounding drums before floating down to a delicate aesthetic of fluttering guitar lines and blissful vocal leads. “Know Me Better” follows with its instantly catchy vocal lines hovering above fuzzy guitar tones and splashy drum work. Showcasing the band’s melodic command and knack for injecting intricate ebb and flow, it’s an anthemic sound that surprises with a grooving breakdown in its final moments.

Other highlights on the record include “Hospice” with its blistering punk energy from the very start. Compelling vocals dance above the driving drums and buzzing guitars before settling into a bass-driven verse capped by vocals that blend urgency with smooth melodies.

The release closes with the title track “Swan Dive Pity Party” which starts out with a shuffling beat, warm bass guitar textures and restrained vocal shots backed by muted guitar tones. As the pent up energy starts to break out, the track builds with crunchy guitar tones, shifting drum rhythms and powerful vocal delivery, resulting in an emphatic and fierce sound. Floating down to a more mellow indie rock aesthetic with emotive vocal work underpinned by stretched organ tones and rhythm accented by the patter of cow bell shots, it’s a truly epic conclusion to a sensational debut record from a thrilling new rock outfit who’s sure to win over fans around the world with their original and entirely enjoyable sound.

Listen to SWAN DIVE PITY PARTY below