Album Review: BETHLEHEM CASUALS - 'The Tragedy of Street Dog'

Bethlehem Casuals new album is a game-changer for future concept albums.

The Tragedy of Street Dog is Bethlehem Casuals’ second album that channels everything from Kraut rock and punk to jazz, psych and folk. This is best characterised as “oddball pop”. Despite the diverse influences that got thrown into the magical cauldron that created …Street Dog, a lot of the material is unforgettably catchy.

First track ‘80s Something’ sets the bar with its Miles Davis-style opening with funky guitars later on. It’s a bizarre mix – but it works. This is continuous throughout the album. …Street Dog has this strange allure that is similar to Tom Waits’ experimental albums. Just listen to ‘River Rat II’ and you’ll understand.

Not only is the music captivating, but the story behind the album is interesting and original. Street Dog’s owner dies, so he finds himself wandering the streets of Manchester wondering where all the music has gone, to find it held hostage in Salford. Story wise, this could be on par with Ziggy Stardust.

The expression “too many cooks in the kitchen” certainly does not apply hear. Bethlehem Casuals feature seven members, and they have collectively created a brilliant album.

Words by Matthew Brocklehurst

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