Voodoo Dogs: The Gritty Heart of Modern Garage Rock

Voodoo Dogs is a dynamic American garage rock band that emerged from the vibrant dive bar scene of Austin, Texas. The group carved a distinct path with their raw, blues-infused sound, achieving notable commercial success with their 2018 album 'Midnight Howl,' which charted on the Billboard 200 and spawned several rock radio hits.

Early career

Formed in 2012, Voodoo Dogs solidified its lineup around the gritty vocals of frontman Jax Stone and the searing guitar work of Eli Vance. The band honed their explosive live show through relentless touring across Texas, building a loyal local following. Their self-released 2014 EP, 'Bone Yard Tapes,' captured their raw energy and attracted the attention of independent label Rust Belt Records.

Breakthrough

The band's major breakthrough arrived in 2018 with the release of their sophomore album, 'Midnight Howl,' on Rust Belt Records. Propelled by relentless touring and growing rock radio support, the album debuted at number 154 on the Billboard 200, a significant feat for an independent rock act. The lead single's sustained airplay helped 'Midnight Howl' move over 500,000 units, earning a gold certification from the RIAA.

Key tracks

Devil's Mile — This driving lead single from 'Midnight Howl' became the band's signature track and a staple on rock radio formats nationwide.

Black Cat Bone — A showcase for the band's blues roots, this song's swampy riff and harmonica solo defined their gritty aesthetic.

Howl at the Moon — The anthemic title track from their breakthrough album cemented their reputation for crafting powerful, chant-along choruses.

Rattlesnake Shake — A later collaboration with guitarist Tyler Bryant, this track highlighted their evolution into a tighter, more polished rock outfit.

Following their breakthrough, Voodoo Dogs maintained a steady output, releasing the well-received album 'Electric Church' in 2021. They have collaborated with notable producers like Vance Powell, known for his work with Jack White, which refined their studio sound without sacrificing their livewire intensity. The band continues to be a formidable live act, regularly headlining rock festivals and touring internationally.

Fans of Voodoo Dogs' brand of raw, riff-heavy rock often appreciate the work of similar artists. Listeners who enjoy the Dogs' Texas grit should explore Gary Clark Jr, who blends rock with deep blues and soul. The classic garage rock revivalism of The Black Keys shares a similar foundation in raw, minimalist production. For the high-energy live performance aspect, check out Glory Hammer, another act known for commanding the stage. The Southern rock swagger of Blackberry Smoke also resonates with the band's American roots approach.

The music of Voodoo Dogs maintains a strong presence on radio, particularly on classic rock FM stations that program newer acts and dedicated alternative rock radio stations. Their hits are frequently featured on online rock radio streams that specialize in guitar-driven music, ensuring their songs reach both long-time fans and new listeners discovering the garage rock genre.

You can hear the powerful garage rock of Voodoo Dogs on radio stations featured right here on onairium.com. Explore our curated selection of independent music radio stations and classic rock channels to discover or rediscover the raw energy of this standout American band.