The Taxpayers have been putting out some incredible music recently, and Rock the Pigeon wants to spotlight two standout tracks you absolutely need to hear.
First up is “At War With the Dogcatchers,” a song that hooks you right from the start with its captivating intro. Almost a minute-long, the introduction features horns and reverberated pianos that gradually build up, creating a sense of anticipation for the deep lyrics that follow. This track is a powerful grief anthem about losing a close friend, whose beloved dog ends up in a pound after their death. Musically, it’s just as engaging as it is emotionally resonant. It’s the perfect introduction to The Taxpayers’ unique sound.
Rob, from The Taxpayers, shared the inspiration behind the song:
“When someone passes away, their pets are often left behind. First responders typically take them to animal control until a solution is found. When a friend of mine passed, his dog was taken to the pound, muzzled and tossed into a cage next to other scared animals. Naturally, she began growling and barking, so animal control labeled her as dangerous, threatening to put her down unless someone could come to retrieve her within 24 hours. Talk about adding insult to injury.
A family friend managed to rescue her, and she eventually found a new home.
So, that’s how we ended up with a dog—no thanks to the dogcatchers.
‘At War With the Dogcatchers’ is about loving the broken things in life, even in the face of a world full of people like the dogcatchers, and finding meaning in the tragedies that unfold.”
Next, we have “I Am One Thousand,” another track that begins with an intriguing intro, this time featuring dissonant, haunting pianos. The song shifts from a circus-like atmosphere to a rock ballad and then bursts into an indie rock anthem. The vocals, drenched in distortion, are delivered with a palpable sense of urgency. This one is an anti-war anthem that was inspired by Rob Taxpayer’s experience teaching free Adult Education night classes in his city’s public school system. Many of his students came from war-torn countries, and one conversation in particular deeply moved him.
Rob explains the inspiration:
“As part of a writing assignment, we discussed where we come from. One of my students from Burma shared her story of escaping violence and the guilt she felt about leaving family and friends behind. At the end of the discussion, she said, ‘I left for my children. I live for the future.’”
Both of these songs showcase The Taxpayers’ knack for blending deep emotional storytelling with bold musical innovation, and we can’t recommend them enough.
Upcoming shows:
March 27 – Minneapolis, MN @ The Underground
March 28 – Chicago, IL @ WC Social Club
March 29 – Detroit, MI @ The Loving Touch
Written by Ryan Cassata
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The post The Taxpayers’ New Heartfelt Anthems of Grief and Resistance appeared first on ROCK THE PIGEON.