Dog Man Star

Suede was a UK band which came into the music scene in the early 1990s. Their brand of alternative glam rock style on their debut album 'Suede' produced memorable singles such as 'Animal Nitrate', 'So Young' and 'The Drowners'. Their chief music writers were Brett Anderson and Bernard Butler, quite possibly one of the best guitarist of his time.

Suede released their second album 'Dog Man Star' in 1994 and the tone of the album was dark, sombre but remarkably coherent and sweeping. From the heavy pounding drums/chaotic guitars introduction of the opening track 'Introducing the Band' amidst a background of echoic chanting, 'We Are The Pigs' set the tone of the whole album with its apocalyptic lyrics and Bernard Butler's signature guitar playing. The album continues on with 'Heroine', quite the best song on the whole album before the grandiose sweeping ballad 'The Wild Ones' lulls the listener to a calm. A glimpse of optimism and pop-sensitivity is evident in the track 'New Generation'. Another great ballad 'The 2 Of Us' features Brett Anderson's dark vocals coupled with a solitude piano tune. The album closes with a grand lush orchestral piece called 'Still Life'. Dog Man Star is considered by many fans and music critics as Suede's finest and one of modern rock's classic albums of all time. It is certainly in my list.

Sadly, this album was made and released in a period of tension within the band, resulting in the departure of Bernard Butler who was swiftly replaced by 17 year old guitarist Richard Oakes.

Suede's success continues right on with the razor sharp pop album in 'Coming Up' in 1996.
Watch out for my next blog review of this album.

'I'm aching to see my Heroine
I'm aching, been dying for hours and hours'

- Heroine