Top Dog - S/T

Rebellion Records

 

It’s only been last October (2015) when Cumbria’s Top Dog unleashed their first effort, the “Welcome To My World” EP, into the underground. Now, just nearly six months later, the Carlisle city lads’ first, self-titled, full-length album is already recorded, good to go and out now on Rebellion Records!

 

The first four tracks, “Welcome To My World”, “Botchergate”, “Violence” and “Clockwork Warrior”, will sound familiar if you already purchased the 7”. Though I am not 100% sure whether they’re re-recorded or not, they immediately put you in the right, riotous, mindset for the remaining part of the album.

 

Because besides the four aforementioned tracks, Top Dog’s debut album features nine more, previously unreleased tracks and they’re cracking! Because where the band lacks a bit in originallity when it comes down to the lyrics (the song “ACAB” is not a cover), they balance that out with a dose of raw and brutal energy, booting down the door with some rough and ready British Oi! anthems like “Were You A Bootboy”, “Carve Her Name With Pride”, “Real Heroes” and “Shoot To Kill”!

 

If you like it raw, in your face and with a big, respectful nod to the violent 80’s of British Oi!, than Top Dog’s self-titled debut album is definitely your cup of tea!