The Doughboys “Act Your Rage”

by Beverly Paterson in Album Reviews

Formed in 1965, The Doughboys released two singles, “Rhoda Mendelbaum” and “Everybody Knows My Name,” that have since become favorites with record collectors from here to eternity. Steady gigs provided the Plainfield, New Jersey band lots of exposure, making them a local sensation. It was a sad moment for many when The Doughboys called it quits as the sixties bled into the seventies, but thankfully the members of the band continued playing music. Bassist Mike Caruso took the session route, working with Jimi Hendrix, for instance, while lead singer Myke Scavone joined Ram Jam, who netted a top forty hit with “Black Betty,” and drummer Richard X. Heyman launched a solo career that has resulted in a truckload and a half of critically acclaimed power pop discs.

Several years ago, The Doughboys reunited for what was supposed to be a one shot affair. But due to the fact they had so much fun (and it didn’t hurt the reception they received was so positive), they decided to keep the band going. In 2007, The Doughboys cut their long awaited debut album, “Is it Now?,” which staunchly indicated they were still a serious force to contend with. Straight on garage rock records are a rarity these days, but this baby certainly does stick to the basics, right down to the raw and edgy presentation and production. Crossbreed the greatest hours of The Shadows of Knight with The Chocolate Watchband, The Rolling Stones and Paul Revere and The Raiders, and that’s the world The Doughboys reside in.

Picking up precisely where “Is It Now?” left off, “Act Your Rage,” needless to say, stands to be yet another electrifying exercise in the fine art of garage rock glory. While most folks probably assume the title of the album refers to the tenor of the music dwelling within the premises, it’s actually the name of a glam pop band (complete with towering platform shoes) Myke and Richard performed in. But yes, there is plenty of rage to be found on the disc, as the fellows snarl, bark, growl and shout their way through the tunes, which are consistently catchy and dangerously contagious. Fuzzy guitars, crashing and burning with purpose, wash over ripping rhythms that push, pull and bend. The vocals taunt and tease, the harmonies are brash and bold, and the melodies are sharp and deadly. Screaming harp fills and occasional keyboard drills further seal the deal. A touch of soul also trims the landscape in the mode of “Queen City,” which features the sassy and seductive sounds of a trumpet and saxophone.

Exploding with energy and action, “I’m Not Your Man,” “Break Out,” “I’m That Kind Of Man,” “Turn Your Love On Me” and “Nobody’s Girl” are the type of songs that would have fit comfortably on a “Nuggets” set. A cocky attitude and mean and lean chops additionally drive the tunes to the ground. The Doughboys are keen songwriters, as their material retains the pulse and mood of sixties garage rock while at the same time splashing the genre with a fresh coat of paint. Considering where the hearts and minds of the band are at, the last thing you would expect to encounter on “Act Your Rage” is a homage to The Moody Blues. But here it is, a cover of “Tuesday Afternoon,” executed in a fiery fashion that doesn’t resemble the original version at all. And it succeeds on every level. That’s how clever The Doughboys are! Richard’s wife, Nancy, is a big Moody Blues fan, and “Tuesday Afternoon” was chosen at her request. Justin Hayward would definitely beam with pride upon hearing the rough and rugged manner in which The Doughboys have rendered his song. Witty, wild and rocking to the max, “Act Your Rage” moves and grooves with feeling.