Big Nothing: Dog Hours [Album Review]

Big Nothing
Dog Hours
Lame-O Records [2022]

There is definitely something refreshing upon hearing Big Nothing’s newly released sophomore record Dog Hours, as its timeless sound is instantly engaging. The Philadelphia band plays a very straightforward guitar rock that is full of layered harmonies and thought stirring lyrics which seamlessly blends a modern indie style with Americana influences.

Dog Hours is an easy listen and sits nicely with your ears right from opening track “Always On My Mind.” The band quickly shows their Teenage Fanclub similarities on this song with its layered harmonies and mid-tempo rhythm that has a strong guitar presence supporting the track. This foot tapping experience continues on the next song “A Lot Of Finding Out,” but this track has a bit more grit and Southern flavor to it like a Lucero. This slightly changing sound keeps Dog Hours fresh which continues to morph as Big Nothing also features bassist Liz Parsons on lead for several tracks. Her vocals are the biggest change on the record as Parsons songs are more a Waxahatchee style.

Big Nothing brings nothing but the warmth on all ten tracks here and reminds me alot of the 90’s records from Boston’s Buffalo Tom. Even with the switching male/female lead vocals and slight style shifts the record succeeds as the instrumentation is cohesive. Dog Hours shines over and over with their honest approach and delivery. There is no studio wizardry and no weird effects – just heartfelt songs and lyrics. When the band harmonizes together and sings “It’s getting harder just to tell you what I mean” during “Curiosity” it sounds like they leave everything on the table. This sincerity is hard to find in bands and Big Nothing offers it to you on every song. This quality alone gives Dog Hours a high replay value that will have you coming back for more.

Key Tracks: “Always On My Mind” / “Don’t Tell Me” / “Curiosity”

Artists With Similar Fire: Lucero / Buffalo Tom / Teenage Fanclub

BIG NOTHING LINKS
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Thomas Wilde

Thomas has a wide range of musical tastes as the NYC scene consistently broadens his pallet. Thomas is enjoying the opportunity to write at TFN and in his spare time is always looking for limited pressings of vinyl to add to his ever growing collection.

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