Kerbdog should have been massive. During the ’90s the Kilkenny-bred alt rockers made a brace of world-beating records, were label mates with Metallica and Black Sabbath and charmed the critics. On paper they had it all. Sadly, rock music was in a weird place back then and it never quite worked out. The intervening years have been kind to the ’Dog though with occasional reunions for shows and a tribute album assembled in their honour too (Pledge).
Live album Congregation is their first release since 1997 and sees the boys, who are now back for good, in vintage form. Recorded in Dublin, Bristol and London last year, it features all the best bits from their back catalogue, plus new song ‘Electricity’. ‘Dry Riser’ sounds satisfyingly crunchy, ‘Mexican Wave’ remains a proto alt rock anthem and ‘Sally’, ‘JJ’s Song’ and ‘End Of Green’ are all as neck-bothering as ever. Serving as both an excellent introduction to the band for those that missed them first time and a gift for the die-hards, Congregation is a cracking collection from one of Ireland’s best acts.
OUT October 10.