Motley Crue, ‘Dogs of War’ – Song Review

2024-04-26

Black and white photo of Motley Crue. Here's our Motley Crue, "Dogs of War" song review.

Motley Crue, “Dogs of War” song review – Author Cat Badra, Photo via Ross Halfin

Motley Crue are back with a new song, “Dogs of War.” It’s a significant song, because it marks the longstanding rock band’s first new song without founding member and guitarist Mick Mars. It also marks the band’s first release of new music in five years. In addition to the new song, “Dogs of War” comes with a unique and intriguing music video. Here’s our Motley Crue, “Dogs of War” song review.

Motley Crue, ‘Dogs of War’ – Song Review

“Dogs of War” makes a statement. It loudly says, “We are Motley Crue, and we are continuing on with a new guitarist.” The song features guitarist John 5 heavily and features some heavy, vintage-style riffing and a sky-high guitar solo. Lyrically, the song is very Motley Crue, with a theme about defiance and pushing the limits. Vince Neil sings, “Don’t let the dogs of war/ Come knocking at your door/ As we’re crawling ‘cross the floor/ They’ll make your skin crawl/ They’ll make the stars fall/ Do they matter after all.” Even with those strong lyrics, Neil’s singing voice takes a backseat to the heavy guitars from John 5 and bass player Nikki Sixx and drums from Tommy Lee.

“Dogs of War” has a very modern mix, with polished, smooth-sounding vocals perfectly blended into the heavy instrumentals. It really doesn’t sound like anything from Motley Crue’s 1980s days, and maybe that’s a good thing. After all, we already have a lot of ’80s-flavored Motley Crue, so why not deliver something different?

As a fan of Mick Mars and having interviewed the guitarist before, it’s difficult for me to give my full stamp of approval to a new Crue song without him. But, “Dogs of War” rocks, as does Mars’ solo material. So, they are both forging ahead and making solid music.

“It’s always great getting back in the studio with the guys in the band,” Sixx said in a statement. “We know you’re gonna like this one.”

While the song doesn’t scream “1980s,” the producer does. Bob Rock produced “Dogs of War,” the same guy who produced the band’s classic 1989 album, “Dr. Feelgood.”

“Working with the band on the new song was the easiest session I have ever had with them,” Rock said in a statement. “The Crue is the best they have ever been! And they have plenty of new stuff in store.”

So, Rock let the cat out of the band that more new music is coming. The release of “Dogs of War” marks the band’s first release on their new record label home, Big Machine. A new album is reportedly forthcoming.

In other news, Motley Crue have a handful of shows and festivals booked for 2024. Their major festivals include Welcome to Rockville, Louder Than Life and Aftershock.

As for the music video, it features all kinds of wildness, including Lee levitating. The music video was conceived and directed by Nick DenBoer along with input from the members of Motley Crue. It features the band members depicted as CGI-generated characters, and things get crazy. Watch the full music video for Motley Crue, “Dogs of War,” below.

Cat Badra
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Posted by Cat Badra | Metal, Music, Rock, Rock News

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