CD Title: Get The Goat By The Horns
Year: 2007
Website: dirtmallofamerica.com
MySpace: myspace.com/dirtmall
Label: Daykamp Records
Featured on: Loucifer Speaks exclusive
Rating: 8.9 / 10
More Links: Please start a thread in the Loucifer Speaks forum
The note that accompanied this album (written by vocalist/guitarist Johnny Anguish) said "It may be a little more stripped down rock than you usually like, but I hope you dig it." Little did Mr Anguish know that "Get The Goat By The Horns" would secure itself in my CD player for quite as long as it has. Stripped down rock this may be, but there are no cut-backs anywhere on this album. There are 8 songs here and all of them are strong enough to played on the radio. That's what Dirt Mall do, they write decent songs that stay in your head.
This album would appeal to those that enjoy good solid rock. Fans of the Foo Fighters, QOTSA and AC/DC should find something to hold on to here and even though there are plenty of influences, Dirt Mall have crafted their own brand of rock. You really couldn't mistake this CD for being anyone else... and that's a really good thing and quite an achievement.
The award for best song title goes to "I'm Not Saying What You Did Was Wrong But Your Timing Could Have Been Better". It may not be short and sweet, but it certainly creates an impact! The songs that really stood out for me were "Hello Los Angeles" (possibly the catchiest from the album - what an opener!), "Medicate (Today)" (you'll be singing the chorus in your sleep!), "Rows" and "I'm Not Saying What You Did Was Wrong But Your Timing Could Have Been Better". The lyrics are well thought-out and very accessible. You can apply many of them to your own situations and the ones that don't fit are just great anyway.
I can see this album easily becoming part of my soundtrack to the summer of 2008. It's the perfect addition to any BBQ, party or for whenever you're just hanging out in the sunshine with a few drinks.