I’m not sure it’s fair to call the Lost Dogs a side project anymore. The band that began as an opportunity for four talented songwriters to work together has in many ways become their main gig. Sure you might still get a new release from one of their original bands but they’ve been much more prolific as the Dogs; which is great news for anyone who enjoys their take on Americana.
Their new CD, Old Angel, was inspired by a road trip they took on Route 66. The band started in Chicago and crossed eight states on their way to California. They brought long time friend and fellow musician Jimmy Abegg along to film and photograph the tour for a DVD release.
Old Angel holds its own among the best music the Lost Dogs have released. Terry Taylor wrote seven of the songs outright and co-wrote five others. His poetics talents can be heard throughout the record. In my opinion he is one of the most underrated songwriters making music today. His writing holds its own with the best of the best. The same can be said for the lyrical and musical contributions of the other Dogs. Mike Roe’s guitar work is impeccable. I could listen to Derri’s sweet voice sing the phone book and Steve Hindalong brings such beautiful touch to the percussion work. Together they create music that demands repeated listens. I found myself listening over and over to many of the songs throughout this album.
The CD opens with “Israelites and Okies.” The lush, beautiful music reminds me of “Broken Like Brooklyn,” which began their last CD, The Lost Cabin and the Mystery Trees. The lyrics are propelled by the subtle yet stunning guitar work.
I caught myself thinking that “The Glory Road” would fit perfectly on a Daniel Amos CD. Then I realized it was written by Terry and longtime DA collaborators Greg Flesch and Tim Chandler. After a little more digging I found that it was on a Daniel Amos album. It is great hearing it on this new recording with Mike on the vocals.
“Traveling Mercies” is a beautiful showcase for Derri Daugherty’s charming vocals. I loved the EP he released several years ago and I’m excited to see that a new disc from the Choir is in the works. I only hope he will take the time to record a full length solo album. “Traveling Mercies” will also serve as the perfect send off for those who are planning road trips this summer.
One of my favorite songs on the disc is “Pearl Moon (Hooverville Camp, 1932).” I knew from the title that this had to be based on a historical reference. Hooverville Camps were depression era shack towns built on the edge towns during the Great Depression. They provided a home for the down and out. This is one of those beautifully sad songs that you can’t help listening to again and again.
“Wicked Guns” provides a rocker for Mike Roe to showcase his wicked guitar work. It wouldn’t be a Lost Dogs record if Mike didn’t have a chance to rock out.
My one complaint is with the art work. Don’t get me wrong, Jimmy Abegg’s photography and art work is beautiful. But this is the type of album that demands a much more expanded booklet. I would love to see more of the photos Jimmy took. It would have been great to see them create an expanded disc and booklet for fans that want to pay more.
I could go on and on about Old Angel. This is an album that deserves much greater attention than it will receive, but the band will most likely continue to record in obscurity.
That is an injustice.
