American music and the endless list of US musicians have been a massive part of the musical motivation for South Coast based four-piece band the Savage Underdogs. After a trip there in 2016 frontman and lyricist, Matthew Williams brought back some ideas that would eventually lead to the band’s debut album “California 99”. There was already a joint appreciation of the likes of Bruce Springsteen, Johnny Cash and punk bands like Social Distortion. The album airs storytelling lyrics vividly referencing American and historical world events with some personal stories of Matthewís too. The album brings together four musicians who are all very adept within their own fields and when they come together, a certain chemistry takes over.
The record leans heavily on guitar-laden tracks with plenty of styles to keep things varied. They had indeed tried to embrace the classic Americana styles with a smattering of blues, but there is no shaking off the punk heartbeat that clearly pulses through Matthew Williamsís veins. At times they remind me of New Model Army and at times Shane McGowan’s heavy influence rears once again. There are plenty of standout moments like “Gypsy Queen”, the pulsating “Killing Fields” and the haunting organ intro of moshpit favourite The Churches, which leads nicely to a hidden acapella version of the title track. I would like to see these guys trying to vary things around a bit more with some experimentation and move away from their comfort zones, to bring in new elements and styles to their music. A great debut nevertheless and it is good to see a band still so passionate about delivering their own original tunes.
Track Listing
Storm
She’s The One
Rollin High
1853
California 99
Gypsy Queen
Long Dead and Gone
Political Broadcast 72
Run for Cover
Killing Fields
Empty Coffin
The Churches
Savage Underdogs are
Matthew Williams – Lead Vocals & Guitar
Ben Stock – Harmonies & Lead Guitar
Greg Long – Harmonies & Bass
Pete Sheriff – Drums
Links
http://www.savageunderdogs.uk
https://www.facebook.com/savageunderdogs
https://savageunderdogs.bandcamp.com
Contact: savageunderdogsuk@hotmail.com
Review by Dave Chinery (Chinners).
