Live At Workplay

Some folks love live recordings; others despise them. Even those in the latter category, however, will make exceptions for bands like the Blue Dogs. Live at Workplay leaves the impression that the band has clocked in plenty of on-stage hours, and that this experience has left the Blue Dogs quite comfortable with one another. A four-piece band mostly consisting of acoustic guitar, electric guitar, bass, and drum arrangements, the Blue Dogs fit snugly into the alternative country camp, though the group's lead vocals occasionally remind one of a number of '90s alternative bands. An easy-rolling song like "Sister" reveals a tight band, fine lead guitar, and solid lead vocal; "Missed It by a Mile," on the other hand, is closer to country-rock, and features the band's fine harmonies. The Blue Dogs also have an affection for humorous songs like "The Way Back," about love blossoming in an SUV, and "Conversation with a Mule." These humor songs also add variety to Live at Workplay, providing an element absent from most alternative country bands. Even with these traits, however, the Blue Dogs frequently remind one of a number of other bands in the ever-expanding alternative country pool. Fans of alterative country and the band will nonetheless find much to like about the Blue Dogs' fine performance on Live at Workplay. ~ Ronnie D. Lankford, Jr., Rovi