I posted this little caption over on Facebook/Instagram about the mighty 1999 T&N debut of San Diego, CA. punk rock band, Dogwood, that turned 20 this year. This monumental release influenced not only myself but many more across the globe. An unforgettable message of Faith, and a swift punch to the gut punk rock delivery. Here is what I said…
“There I was newly married for 1 year and then this hard hitting, punk rock anthem of an album hit the streets. I was a fan since Good Ol Daze, and Through Thick And Thin took them and their brand of fiery punk rock to the next level. The impact of Dogwood may not have been felt in flimsy “trophy’s” and “awards” or on Billboard Charts and MTV (at the time) but certainly in the hearts and minds of thousands of young people around the world. Christian kids probably couldn’t handle the punk rock intensity and raw vocal style which invoked similarities to artists such as Good Riddance, NoFx, Strung Out, Bigwig, Bad Religion, Lagwagon, Pennywise, etc and the General market fans hated the faith-centered message of the band. They may have been stuck in the middle somewhat but their good-natured, melodic style really did separate this band so much from the others and when they all began to drop like flies, Dogwood kept forging ahead. The band would go on to release 3 more incredible full lengths, along with a split Ep with local band, Incomplete, a Live album, and a couple compilation tracks. Dogwood and this album came at the perfect time in my life 20 years ago and this whole sound/T&N scene may or may not have been responsible for the launch of Indie Vision Music In year 2000. 1999 was a year to remember and I am thankful for the music of Dogwood. Oh and thank you Josh Kemble for the years of memories and for letting me book Dogwood several times at places like Chain Reaction, CORE Boardshop, Calvary Chapel San Juan Capistrano, and other local places. If Dogwood ever rises to make more music, the fans are here to support. Happy 20th More Than Conquerors.”
Here here! Dogwood is still my all time favorite punk band! I have to admit, it took me a few listens to get Josh’s vocal style, now I love it. While Building a Better Me and Matt Argon are more of my favorites, I still love More than Conquerors. Feel the Burn is an all time classic, and “Everything Dies” was an anthem for my high school years. “You had your chance, now its OUR time!” After I got into them, it seemed like they never played on the east coast unless it was for Cornerstone. When I had the… Read more »
Amen bro!!