Under And Under

Mike Sniper, the meek wizard behind Blank Dogs, hid his face in bandages for press shots, hoping to avoid getting pigeon-holed. This intent to be seen as unique comes through in the music: a murky muddle of distorted home recording that draws from post-punk, goth, and new wave. With a stash of '80s pedals, every instrument and vocal is run through an effect, making the album unintelligible. But the abundant hooks make Blank Dogs so special and interesting.