Artist of the Week is Year of the Dog
Our Artist of the Week is Year of the Dog.
Year of the Dog, hailing from Cardiff and Bristol, has emerged as a formidable force in the music world. Their reputation as a must-see live band on the underground circuit has drawn attention from fans and critics alike. The band has graced some of the biggest stages at renowned festivals such as Nozstock, Kendal Calling, Cheltenham Jazz, Cardiff LGBTQ+ Pride, and more. Their electrifying performances have left audiences captivated and dancing the night away.
Year of the Dog was formed in 2018 at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama. What sets this band apart is their diverse musical interests and influences. Ranging from Bruno Mars and Red Hot Chili Peppers to Miles Davis, each member brings their own unique musical inspirations to the mix.
One of Year of the Dog‘s standout tracks is ‘Tigers in the Living Room.’ This song exemplifies the band’s talent for creating music that is not only infectious, but also deeply significant. It serves as a musical embodiment of the burning desire to explore the world alongside loved ones.
Listen to ‘Tigers in the Living Room’ here:
The tale behind this song is as enchanting as the song itself. It all began when the band received the thrilling news of their inaugural international performance at the Poděbrady Soundtrack festival in the Czech Republic. Filled with elation, Felix, the band’s guitarist, reached for his guitar and effortlessly strummed a chord progression. He presented it to the rest of the band, and Gaz and Olly spontaneously crafted the horn line on the spot, as if they were in perfect sync, sharing a single mind.
The song’s lyrics, although taking several months to compose, capture the sentiment that compelled Felix to pick up his guitar – the yearning for adventure and exploration. While the song radiates joy, it also acknowledges the hurdles and difficulties that accompany the pursuit of one’s dreams. ‘Tigers in the Living Room’ isn’t solely about traversing the globe; it’s about the hope and aspiration that accompany the journey.
If you’re eager to experience the magic of Year of the Dog live, you’re in luck! They are set to perform at Bristol’s Thekla on Saturday, December 2nd, 2023. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness this extraordinary band in action.
Follow Year of the Dog‘s journey here: