I didn’t know what to expect when I first saw American Dogs album “Scars-N Bars” as it sat looking rather docile on my computer table (must stop the wife opening my mail!!!!)  Three long haired blokes sitting amidst a pile of empty beer cans? 

Well, let me tell you, what you see on the cover most certainly isn’t what is inside!  This album transports you back in time, back to an era of heavy beating, rip snorting, brain thumping, gutsy, down to earth heavy rock.  The type of rock that moves your body just by the pressure waves that leap out of your sub woofers.  

The first three tracks, “Workin’ Man”, “Faded” and “Conviction” really drag you into the music, your head starts swaying with the beat and some of the riffs that come from the guitar of Steve Theado get you tuning the air guitar up ready to join in.  Then, for some reason, you get “Lucky 13”, a slower, mellower bluesy style of rock which slows the tempo right down.  The next track “Got You By A Chain” cranks the beat right back up to maximum overload starting off with another fantastic guitar riff.   

At first I sat and wondered “why the change in speed?”, then I understood.  Very cleverly they have realised that they can’t constantly smack you round the head with the heavy beat, you need a rest.  So, they give you a rest, and then smack you round the head again but this time harder and louder.  You are treated to some real male testosterone driven chauvinistic rock on “Another Lost Weekend” while “Little Girl” has some fancy riffs and real growling vocals. 

The guitar playing of Steve Theado on “Lucky 13”, Got You By A Chain” and Burnin Yesterday”, really adds to the whole feel of the album and transported me back to the days of sneaking (underage) into the smoke filled, sweaty Rock Clubs in Doncaster, minesweeping the tables and spending the rest of the night getting pissed on half a lager and rocking the night away.  Aaaaah, the memories. 

This is definitely an album for purveyors of all things heavy, and especially those who remember the heady rock years of the 70’s and early 80’s.  Wherever you play it, in the car, on your stereo, on your MP3 player, one piece of advice ……… play it LOUD.   

These guys are touring the UK this summer and I, for one, want to go and see them live after listening to this.  Do the same, I don’t think you will be disappointed.  Their tour dates can be found at www.americandog.us

Let us know your views on 'Scars 'N' Bars'

Track List

Workin' Man
Faded
Conviction
Lucky 13
Got You by a Chain
Another Lost Weekend
She Ain't Real Pretty
Burnin' Yesterday
Sunday Buzz
Little Girl
Ten 'til Two

Line Up

Michael Hannon - Vocals/Bass
Steve Theado - Guitars/Vocals
Keith Pickens - Drums