Demons & Dogmen
Self-Released, 2021
9/10
A concept album from the New York pulp-punk outfit, Dalton Deschain and company bring theatrics into a very unpredictable story about a 1940’s Detroit street musician who becomes possessed by a demon and takes over a local circus. The plan turns deadly, however, and the circus freaks, a failed actress and a psychic janitor must stop him.
“Threepenny And A Blood Red Strat” starts the listen with much atmosphere before bursting into a firm, driving punk tune that’s full of soaring vocals, and “Man/Thing” follows with moments of dreamy beauty as well as bouts of thick, tense prog-punk that might make you think of Modest Mouse with a gym membership.
Further into the listen, “Rabid” is full of sublime backing vocals, although Deschain’s versatile pipes impress, too, in the highly melodic setting, while “Tin Laurels” remains, calm, even poetic, with much ambience before escalating into louder avenues. “Different Constellations”, one of the album’s best, then opens with warm acoustic guitar and carries an almost lullaby quality as the vocals get bit more forceful, where hazy New Wave nods enter.
Nearing the end, “Devil’s Night” showcases plenty of tuneful grit as a very dynamic, punchy delivery emits much power, and “Juno” exits the listen with some quirky moments to complement the anthemic undertones of the synth fueled rock.
An extremely creative and memorable record, the physical version actually comes with a 260 page novel penned by Deschain, which extends on the story and incorporates the song’s lyrics.
Whether you’re listening on the surface or looking for a more involved experience, Demons & Dogmen impresses on all levels with its multi-faceted punk rock approach and vivid storytelling that’s diverse enough to bring to mind David Bowie, Alkaline Trio or even Against Me!.
Travels well with: The Sonder Bombs- Modern Female Rockstar; The Christmas Bride- Dark Romance Of A Midnight Wanderer