RABID DOGS - "S/T" 7"

REVIEW FROM WEIRDO WASTELAND-

“I know you’re trouble, give me a double”

This is a line plucked from ‘No Fun’, the new ripper from Melbourne punk outfit Rabid Dogs. Much like the group’s name indicates, Rabid Dogs pumps out a frenzied and ferocious onslaught that is both barbarous and barbed. The band’s sound is wiry and tough, durable and formidable but not without malleability. Rabid Dogs is starting off the year with a 7” EP – released officially on Friday January 19 through the esteemed Aarght Records – and ‘No Fun’ is the first cab off the rank when the needle drops. That there line up the top is a pretty good analogy of sorts when describing the Rabid Dogs appeal – you know from the outside this band is up to no good but that’s not going to stop you diving deep. You know it’s going to be worth it.

As for the music as a whole, well, if you’re a fan of white-knuckled, fuel-injected, power punk, then you’ve got a lot to like. If you dig a bit of pedigree, then consider this rabid dog worthy of a blue ribbon. Heavy hitters such as Al Smith (Gentlemen, Geld), Kerk Scotczer (Kromosom, Miss Destiny) and Lee Parker (Teargas, Lakes, TOL) are joined by first timer Kate Curtis, who sounds like she’s been in 20 bands and not one.

It’s not fun when you can’t get what you want. There’s a lot to be said about journeys and destinations, sure, but if you like your music fast then the two are more or less the same. If this song’s about anything, it’s that life’s too fucking short for delayed gratification. Tongue firmly in cheek, Kate riffs on flirting at high speed – skipping a step or two, aiming straight for the desired result and declaring that those not keen on the same kind of trip should get off the fucking train. She wants what she wants, she wants it from you, and she wants it now.

“Don’t be a drag, just give me everything I need”

Set this sentiment to a cranking, cacophonous backdrop and you’ve got yourself an anthem suitable for anyone that likes results.