“Getting’ Tight with Dreadnaught” (Red Fez Records 7135770431, 2015)
Dreadnaught, the terrific rock band that never ceases to surprise, has released an EP titled “Getting’ Tight with Dreadnaught.”
The first piece on the EP, “Nervous Little Dogs”, is a clear example of the band’s multidimensional sound. There are progressive rock phrasings and time signature changes, rootsy and gutsy Americana.
Next comes “The Badger.” Despite the initial pop intro, the group quickly goes into a more progressive mode mixing Gentle Giant-style vocals and jazz stylings with country-rock. Eventually it develops into a prog-rock jam.
“This Time Next Year” has a southern rock feel with a jam rock conclusion. Track 4 is “Knife Hits,” a composition that begins with atmospheric electronics and sound effects that progresses into a great jazz-rock jam piece with some hard riffs, Yes-style guitar and bass lines, and roots elements mixed into the pot.
The last piece is “Barefoot Kicker,” a folk-rock piece that grows into a progressive rock mini-epic with memorable guitar work.
The lineup on the recording includes Rick Habib on drums, percussion, vocals; Bob Lord on bass guitars, keyboards, vocals; and Justin Walton on guitars, keyboards, saxophone, vocals. Andy Happel makes a guest appearance on violin.