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SOUTHDOGROCK Release "Ugly Brothers"
SOUTHDOGROCK, a Mississippi Delta Blues Rock band from southern Germany, brings their unique flair to the genre with Ugly Brothers—a lively blend of blues and funk rock served straight, like a good whiskey.
The track kicks off with a gritty, infectious blues-rock vibe that's hard to resist. Florian Döpperts harmonica (or "harp") steals the show early on, adding a raw, rhythmic raspiness reminiscent of a steam train in motion. It’s a perfect touch that deepens the song’s rootsy character.
Drummer Martin Hugenschmidt holds a tight, funky groove with some standout fills, maintaining a balance of flair and consistency. Meanwhile, Frank Heiders bass locks in perfectly, creating a rock-solid foundation for the song. The verses feature a short, punchy vocal phrasing where Florian Döppert carries a slight rap edge, evoking the spirit of the Red Hot Chili Peppers—a comparison that bodes well.
Guitarist, Salva Balbo demonstrates a masterful understanding of the song’s needs. Knowing when to keep it simple and let the groove shine, they also seize the perfect moments to let loose with fiery solos that elevate the track. This balance of restraint and boldness is a hallmark of great musicianship.
The chorus is undeniably catchy, with the song’s title doubling as a memorable hook. The layered vocals in the chorus amplify the "brothers" theme and are executed with impressive precision.
Each band member shines at some point, showcasing exceptional musicianship through dynamic solos. The keyboard work by Frank Schultz is especially noteworthy, adding depth and even taking a psychedelic turn that momentarily shifts the song's direction, keeping listeners engaged. Despite the richness of instrumentation, the mix remains clean and uncluttered—a testament to the band's experience and skill in knowing when to step back and let others shine.
The tongue-in-cheek lyrics bring a playful, light-hearted energy to the track, making it all the more enjoyable.
Ugly Brothers is available on all major streaming platforms, and the accompanying music video can be found on YouTube.
SOUTHDOGROCK has delivered a daring, delightful track that’s well worth a listen. Highly recommended!
Credits
Salva Balbo – Guitar
Florian Döppert – Vocals, Lyrics, Blues Harp and Song Creation
Frank Heider- Bass
Martin Hugenschmidt – Drums
Frank Schultz – Keyboards, Programming
Produced, recorded and mastered at the PRO TON Studios of Frank Schultz
Nico Frye- Video Production