ALBUM REVIEW - THE SHEEPDOGS – KEEP OUT OF THE STORM

Desh Kapur
1 hour ago
2 min read

WORDS SAM HOLT

KEEP OUT OF THE STORM

THE SHEEPDOGS

OUT 27TH FEBRUARY

Canadian band The Sheepdogs' latest album, Keep Out of the Storm, dropped recently into my email inbox. Despite having been developing their sound for the previous two decades, they are new to me. Their style has a classic rock vibe; frontman Ewan Currie defines their goal as ‘landing in the "sweet spot" between the heavy riffs of Led Zeppelin and the melodic harmonies of Crosby, Stills & Nash.' This is their tenth album, released following the departure of drummer Sam Corbett, a founding member. Bringing in additional musicians to play drums has provided additional influence and most likely a new depth to their sound, recently described as modern retro. Is there a new beginning? Possibly, but the result is a great album that I enjoyed immensely and one that makes me want to discover more of their work. The album is set for release on February 27th.

Nobody But You, the opening tune, with its hooks, draws you in right away; I believe it's the most radio-friendly track on the album. The majority are short tunes, but why add additional when the formula works? I've loved the 'guitar-monies', as someone once defined it, that a twin guitar approach brings. All Night Long is my favourite track; unlike many 'short and straight to the point' tracks, this proceeds at its own pace, allowing for multiple solos while yet seeming like a jam, not to suggest it lacks structure. But rather a chance for everyone to feel a part of it before it fades away. Take A Look at Me Riding continues, slowing things down with a quiet guitar solo and some vintage keyboard work in a blue/soulful style. The album is comprised of numerous excellent tracks, each of which adds something unique. Yellow Line even features some excellent trombone playing on a wonderful Southern rock track. Bad for Your Health expresses the difficulties that 21st-century living poses, or is it a matter of how we weather storms in everyday life, as Ewan Currie has commented about the album? However, it is an intriguing notion to consider.

It's southern rock with a hint of blues, and it leans toward Americana in places, but it's good solid rock 'n' roll music played with passion and fun. It's not over-orchestrated, but it's well-arranged, and you can feel the band having fun trading solos while allowing the jam to meander its way through. I really loved the twin guitar approach that drives most of the record and the modern vintage feel they generate. The band are touring the UK later in the year; make sure you look out for their Out All Night tour in November.