Michael Knott, whether fairly or unfairly, has long been considered the [and I know he hates this term] "badboy" of christian rock. Rumors have swirled and continue to swirl concerning his personal life, his behavior, etc... But there has always been one thing that has been perfectly clear about Mike Knott; this man has talent. Loads of it. And he knows how to rock. DOGFISH JONES is the latest offering from christian rock's favorite dark eccentric. [And I don't mean that in a bad way. Eccentricity breeds genius.]

 

This album is an allegorical tale of the journey of a wayfaring seaman; the dangers he encounters on his way, and how ultimately God's grace brings him to his final destination. And while this is no "Pilgrim's Progress", I'm sure Mr. John Bunyan could glean some nuggets of truth from Mike's latest offering. Mike has assembled his usual cast of characters here to help him out; Betty's and L.S.U. alumni Andrew Carter on guitar, Jeff Elbel on bass, Chuck Cummings pounding skins, and Adam Again's Gene Eugene [who also engineered the album] on what Mike calls "70's bachelor pad lounge organ".

 

Mike's dad Howard even lends his vocals to the mix on two songs. These two songs, however, break up the continuity of the album and would probably have been better left off.[Sorry Mr.Knott.] This album is a thick, multi layered prduction with multi and I mean multi layered vocal tracks and T.Rex like background harmonies. Musicianship is stellar, and we get to see another of Mike's unusual original artwoks on the cover as well. If you've heard Mike Knott before, either solo or with his with his bands Aunt Betty's, Lifesavors, or L.S.U., you already know what to expect. If you haven't, do yourself a favor and check out one of the finest and most thoughtful artists modern rock has to offer.