Sick Puppies, a band consisting of only three members, has done an outstanding job creating their own sound with their first mainstream album, “Dressed Up As Life”. Though the theme of the album keeps to a mainly serious vibe, the band finds ways to make their music hype and energetic as well as slow and paced. To go with fantastic instrumentals the band also features terrific singing and quality lyrics.
“Dressed Up As Life” in a whole was one of the most consistent albums I may have ever listened to. No song threw me off when listening. They kept themselves balanced when starting the album with a song that wouldn't be considered heavy, nor considered soft. The first track and second single from the album, “My World”, was an awesome opener. Beginning with just the bass and Shimon Monroe’s excellent singing the song then transitions when reaching the chorus by bringing in the flow of the guitar and drum. The song ending the same way as well except with Shimon singing and screaming “Welcome to my world”.
The band also focuses on a more controversial topic when examining the lyrics of their eighth track, “Howard’s Tale”. Examining the life of Howard from age 5 to 19, the song tells a story of someone abused, whether it be physical, mental, or sexual is unknown, and the effects left upon him and how it affects his life. Though it is still excellently written, sung, and performed, the main reasons for why the song could be considered controversial is because of the connections made to abuse of one’s self and others, and the after effects leaving him confused of whether he is homosexual or not.
As the album started it ends the same way with one of the more heavier songs. The difference between the beginning and the end is that the end has a more hyper sound. The final track “The Bottom” starts with a series of sounds created by the drums and bass followed by the guitar, then combining into a more unified sound where the vocals enters. In my personal opinion, I believe the singer is saying that even though we’re all going to die and rot we can still smile and live it up. Ending the album on a great note. Sick Puppies has created a sound that is better listened to than described. From beginning to end the album shows how much potential this band holds. This album is one that sets the bar high for any of their work in the future.
