Dr. Dog’s Lonely Hearts Club Band

With the release of Dr. Dog’s “Fate” in late July came an untitled supplemental 7-Inch containing two absolute gems from the Phillie psych-rock band.

First is “the dearly departed.” which is an beautiful trumpet accompanied, harmony filled croissant of musical goodness; filled with woe and languish, or at least the sound of a heart breaking viva voce. It is sung by the huskier voiced lead singer, rather than the younger innocence of the crooner on the B-Side, this makes it so much more emotional and painful as he tells his tale of lost love.

The B-Side (‘Is It Worth My Time’) is much, much more upbeat with an immediate Sgt. Pepper’s flurry of flutes, womping piano, a brass section, crashing melodic cymbals. Tables’ (or Toby Leaman which is his non-stage name) vocals are peppy and bright as usual, the lack of a British accent is the only thing seperating this band from the real Sgt. Pepper’s era Beatles. The song’s denouement even ends in a offkey brass explosion and just plain zaniness as many Sgt. Pepper’s songs. To extend the similarities, hearing these tracks on vinyl with their maintained warm, analog sound seals the deal.

If you can find one of the 7-inches anywhere I greatly recommend it. And if you don’t have a turntable, then shame on you, go get one. This Ion USB turntable is a great price for good quality, and with a simple headphone out, there’s no need for a super expensive speaker system.

- Link to the turntable on Amazon

(Click Dr. Dog’s picture to take you to iTunes and Fate)