MACHINE DOG - Pound the Clown ('86-'88)

LABEL: ThrashBack Records

RELEASE DATE: February 9, 2024

MACHINE DOG was formed in 1985 by Scott D'Antonio (drums) and the two John's (Pfrommer - guitar & Tokarski - bass), born out of their passion for all that was heavy that was coming out of Europe in the 70's (Zeppelin, Sabbath, Purple, Motörhead) as well as the early 80's NWOBHM invasion and the first wave of speed and thrash metal.

In 1986 the band would enter Why Me Studios? in Gibbsboro, New Jersey and record their first demo, "Sic 'Em". This three track affair quickly got the band attention from college radio, fanzines, and in the international underground tape trading scene. The tapes tongue in cheek lead off track, "No Balls", would become a fan favorite at live shows, at college radio, and would land them a spot on the compilation release "Merciless Disorder" (Criterion Tapes - U.K.) along with bands such as Faith or Fear, Viking, Savage Thrust, Caligula and Atrophy.

In 1987 MACHINE DOG would once again enter Why Me? Studios and lay down their second demo, "Prescription of Sickness”. This second offense would garner them further attention that enabled the band to begin to tour regionally, playing legendary clubs such as Bonnies (Atco, New Jersey), Empire Rock Club (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania), CBGB (New York City), The Metal Shop (Camden, Delaware), and G. Willikers (Pennsauken, New Jersey), among many others. The band would also be featured on the highly popular cable TV program "The Uncle Floyd Show" (which ran from 1974-1998), performing two cuts from this latest release, "Pound The Clown" and "Instigator". 

In 1988 MACHINE DOG again entered Why Me? and recorded one last demo, a three track affair for shopping purposes only. After these recordings were completed the band would welcome a second guitarist, Andy Csaszar, sign a management deal, and begin recording what should have been their debut album. Part way through the albums sessions the studio bill stopped being paid, lawsuits ensued, and MACHINE DOG would fold.

This 2024 reissue includes all of the bands classic era demo output from 1986 through 1988 (newly remastered by Eric Hoffman at Reformata Audio), new cover art by Sidjimbe Art Studios and a brand new interview was conducted with founder / drummer Scott D'Antonio by Chris Forbes of the legendary Metal-Core Fanzine. CD is packaged in a jewel case with a 12-page booklet packed with rare archival materials. CD is limited to a one time pressing of 300 copies worldwide.

FOR FANS OF: Raven, Motörhead, Savage, Tygers of Pan Tang