/SIN’DOGS/ Renascence (CD EP)
Metal band Sin’Dogs were formed by guitarist Zal Cleminson, best known for his work with The Sensational Alex Harvey Band and Nazareth, and were formed with Zal wanting to return to his heavier roots (the pre SAHB band Tear Gas), and exploring a more industrial sound. An excellent debut album (also featuring a member of a SAHB tribute band), blistering in places, and a second album was underway when Zal left the band.
So here, Sin’Dogs have continued with a new line-up and give us this 4 track EP. And a wonderful listen it is too.
The band now feature vocalist Peter Scallan (Samson, Morritz, Glasgow), guitarist Andy McLaughlan (Burnt Out Wreck), and drummer Todd McLoud (Swampborn Assassins, Glasgow), alongside bassist Nelson McFarlane and pianist David Cowan.
Opener Day Of Reckoning has a fine groove, a great catchy opening riff, and a fine blend of rough solid metal and a melodic rock (love that synth solo). Both the keyboards and guitar are quite intricate in The Strange Door, which also have heavy overtones. Zal’s theatrics may be gone but an element of the Alex Harvey presentation has been kept.
The keyboard and piano intro to Dark Side Of Your Soul is quite atmospheric, a dark, heavy yet gentle inciteful number. Sweeping synth over the piano make for a moody song with lots of feeling, before the band open up and there’s quite the impressive and equally atmospheric guitar solo too.
In keeping some of their original roots, the band are doing their own thing and it’s really well worth getting. Essential Listening.
Joe Geesin | Now Spinning Magazine
