Band Site: http://www.krippleddogz.com

Krippled Dogz is a Houston-based hard rock outfit that comprises mostly of military veterans, some of them disabled, thus the inspiration for the name. The musicians are proud supporters of the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association and part of the proceeds from their album sales go towards that association.

The album opens with “Trial By Fire”, an industrial metal tune, with its main riff highly reminiscent of Rammstein.

The band sounds tight, although the riffing is somewhat generic.

What I like about the Dogz is that they don't lock themselves into hair metal territory as most new hard rock acts, but instead they take a more traditional rock approach. The lyrics hint at army life, and the music also hints at military themes. The drums on the album were recorded by Jason Mancuso, who wears two hats, as lead guitarist and drummer for the sessions. The production is top notch, thanks to mixer/producer Stephen Bogle coming on board to work with the Dogz.

There's no doubt that this is a real man's band, as when the Dogz are not singing about army life, they talk about other problems that the ordinary guy might have to deal with. “I Quit Drinking” is probably my favorite, the lyrics definitely brought a smirk to my face and deal with something I can definitely relate to. “Fast Track” was also a high adrenaline rocker, reminiscent of some good old Lemmy Kilmister tracks but with a more diverse delivery. The lyrics to “Heart Burn”, while simple strike with a deep message:

“do you hate what you see in the mirror
'cause only you can make the change”.

The album is quite pleasant and well put together, the band is tight, the tunes are good, but I feel that it misses a certain luster and memorable performances that would put it over the top and make it something more than a local act's self-financed release.

Overall a pleasant release and I would definitely enjoy hearing the band live in a local drinking establishment, which is probably what the Dogz have in mind, as in the band's bio, founding member Tony Mancuso is mentioned as just wanting to get his music out there while he can.

Reviewed by: A. Dorian