The Sheepdogs - The Sheepdogs (06/11/2012)
When first listening to The Sheepdogs’ self-titled album it was not surprising to find out that it was produced in Nashville by Patrick Carney of The Black Keys. The track Feeling Good definitely has a The Black Keys vibe to it. That being said, you will not hear any songs on this album typical of the usual country music that comes out of Nashville. Instead you get some laid back rock guitar supported by some simple yet effective keys. The accompanying harsh vocals are balanced by beautiful echos and harmonies.
Although the vocals do a great job of bringing out the lyrics one of my favourite tracks would have to be the instrumental Javelina!. This track has an interesting way of showcasing all the instruments while also complimenting each other. It’s a great track to play through your headphones as parts of it travel from ear to ear. Another great track is I Need Help. It has some of the catchiest guitar I have heard in a while. A simple lyric for the chorus - ‘I need help, so bad.’ - that everyone can easily relate to makes this song a joy to listen to.
The one thing that irked me about this album is that at times it feels a little bit too repetitive. This carries throughout certain tracks but also in the album as a whole. It appears as if certain tricks or hooks are a bit overused. Luckily, these tricks are enjoyable.
Overall, The Sheepdogs is an album which is easy to listen to. Everything is well balanced and nothing stands out in a negative way. Some tracks will grab your attention while the rest will cruise by you. However, one thing you are guaranteed of is that each track is delivered with passion and for this the band must be commended.
Natalia Baranowski
Although the vocals do a great job of bringing out the lyrics one of my favourite tracks would have to be the instrumental Javelina!. This track has an interesting way of showcasing all the instruments while also complimenting each other. It’s a great track to play through your headphones as parts of it travel from ear to ear. Another great track is I Need Help. It has some of the catchiest guitar I have heard in a while. A simple lyric for the chorus - ‘I need help, so bad.’ - that everyone can easily relate to makes this song a joy to listen to.
The one thing that irked me about this album is that at times it feels a little bit too repetitive. This carries throughout certain tracks but also in the album as a whole. It appears as if certain tricks or hooks are a bit overused. Luckily, these tricks are enjoyable.
Overall, The Sheepdogs is an album which is easy to listen to. Everything is well balanced and nothing stands out in a negative way. Some tracks will grab your attention while the rest will cruise by you. However, one thing you are guaranteed of is that each track is delivered with passion and for this the band must be commended.
Natalia Baranowski