The rather wonderful Track Dogs return with another genre-defying collection, to celebrate their 20th year together as a band.
The Madrid-based band, comprising two Irishmen, one Englishman, and an American, has produced another joy-filled album, blending Americana, pop, jazz, mariachi, folk, reggae, ragtime, and I’m sure I’ve left a few musical categories out too!
There’s a euphoric infection in the brass-tinged tunes that is hard to resist. But there are also themes of struggles of modern-day life, and love to consider in the lyrics.
The title references the double-edged question, addressed to many a musician, ‘Are you still at the music’, with the not-too-well-hidden accusation: ‘have you not got a real job yet’! But it’s really a chance to glance back at the highs and lows of the band’s musical journey.
‘The Right Side of History’ heralds those brave enough to challenge accepted narratives on social media, while ‘Hardest of Hearts’ continues that slightly darker hue, referencing the chaos around us today. All set to a propulsive, driving beat that really takes to the floor on ‘Stomping Ground’.
‘Who Were You Thinkin’ of? ’ takes a sideways, humorous look at fidelity and trust, with more double entendres than you shake a stick at!
‘Catching Rockies’ will appeal to Dixieland jazz aficionados and fishermen alike.
The album is back-loaded with its three best cuts.
‘You Don’t Make it Easy’ showcases the harmony vocals of Garret and Howard on a tender love song:
Give me the light, when I long for the day,
Give me a path, when I’m losing my way
Give me a reason to still find some hope
Give me your hand when I need it most, when I need it most,
But no, you don’t make it easy
‘Seven Bridges Road’ is a Steve Young song, perhaps best remembered for its cover by the Eagles. The band harmonies really shine sweetly, with the added bonus of Iain Mathews in the vocal mix.
For me, the best cut on the quality album features Peter M. Smith, currently creating a buzz with his uncanny reincarnation of Phil Lynott in ‘Moonlight’. Appropriately, it’s a cover version of Thin Lizzy’s last single release, ‘The Sun Goes Down’. Smith’s vocals are, at once, soft, alluring and compelling!
There’s a real sunshine to the record. A wonderful sonic tonic on these dark winter nights.
Long may the Track dogs run!