American Dog - Poison Smile (2012)

American Dogis a three-piece, hard rock band from Columbus, OH, led by lead singer/bassist Michael Hannon, who had previously played with '80s metal outfits Salty Dog and Dangerous Toys. Having grown up on acts like Ted Nugent, Black Sabbath, and AC/DC, Hannon joined forces with guitarist Steve Threado and drummer Keith Pickens, who had been drumming for a rival band. Last of a Dying Breed was released in April 2000 and found favor with fans who had found radio and video outlets lacking in harder-edged, straight-ahead rock & roll. This was followed by the live studio EP, Six-Pack, with all half-dozen cuts dealing with drinking. As of 2002, the hard-rocking trio was readying a third release, Red, White, Black and Blue.~Tom Demalon