- It’s strange that of all the musical environments in the world, Melbourne seems to be putting out some of the best alternative country music acts at the moment. Not the least of which is the country blues outfit, Eaten By Dogs. Their particular take on country-blues is both interesting and refreshing. Throw backs to Johnny Cash are plentiful, and those sweet guitar tones just leave you begging for some cowboy boots and a blade of grass to tote jauntily from your kisser. There’s also quite a nice cohesion to the record: I wouldn’t call it a concept album, but there is definitely a through line of dark themes and melancholy lyrics that ties the whole release together. Paradoxically, even amongst the sorrow, there's a brightness to these songs, contributing to a consistent emotional depth.

This juxtaposition of light and dark is certainly evident in the first single, If It Ain’t Killing You, It’s Sure Killing Me. The lyrics are most certainly grim, and the apathetic drawl of Chris Lichti’s baritone generates a brooding, sorrowful song. Despite the heart-wrenching sadness, the guitar movements are bright, and the drums and bass play a very bluesy shuffle: a slow dance in the darkness. The song becomes a brilliant balancing act between this warmth and the encroaching despair.

Even if the very mention of country music makes you cringe all over, Eaten By Dogs may give you a pleasant surprise. Yes, they are undeniably country, but the stereotypes aren’t overwhelming and the musicianship is impressive. Country-blues fans should easily be able to find a nice spot for Eaten By Dogs in their collection.

- Mitch Cutting.