Introduction: The Dogs D’Amour

The Dogs D’Amour was a British rock band that emerged in the late 1980s. The band members were known for their distinctive glam rock style and bluesy sound, which earned them a dedicated following of fans. Over the course of their career, the Dogs D’Amour released several albums and singles, achieving chart success in the UK and Europe. Despite lineup changes and controversy, the band’s legacy continues to inspire rock musicians to this day.

Early Years: London in the 1980s

The Dogs D’Amour was formed in London in 1983 by singer Tyla J. Pallas and guitarist Nick Hannon. The two had previously played in a punk band called Black Cat Bones, but wanted to explore a more melodic sound. They were joined by drummer Bam Bam and bassist Karl Watson, and began playing gigs around the city. The band quickly gained a reputation for their high-energy performances and catchy songs, and were soon signed to a record label.

The Founding Members: Who Were They?

Tyla J. Pallas was born in Wales in 1967, and grew up listening to rock music. He moved to London in the early 1980s to pursue a career in music, and met Nick Hannon while playing in local bands. Hannon was originally from Newcastle, and had been playing guitar since he was a teenager. Bam Bam (real name: Steve Harris) was a drummer from Birmingham, while Karl Watson was a bassist from London.

The Band’s Name: What’s in a Name?

According to Tyla, the band’s name was inspired by a dream he had about a pack of wild dogs running through the streets of London. He liked the idea of combining the image of dogs with the French word for love (amour), and the Dogs D’Amour was born. The name also reflected the band’s love of both rock and roll and romanticism.

The Debut Album: “The State We’re In”

The Dogs D’Amour’s debut album, “The State We’re In,” was released in 1984. The album featured a mix of punk, rock, and blues influences, and showcased Tyla’s distinctive vocals and Hannon’s guitar work. While the album received positive reviews from critics, it did not achieve commercial success.

The Breakthrough: “In the Dynamite Jet Saloon”

The Dogs D’Amour’s breakthrough album was “In the Dynamite Jet Saloon,” released in 1988. The album featured the hit single “Satellite Kid,” which became a top 40 hit in the UK. The album’s mix of glam and blues rock, combined with Tyla’s poetic lyrics, struck a chord with fans and critics alike.

The Sound: Glam Rock and Blues Influences

The Dogs D’Amour’s sound was a combination of glam rock and blues influences. The band drew inspiration from 1970s rock bands such as T. Rex and the Rolling Stones, as well as blues artists like Muddy Waters and Howlin’ Wolf. Tyla’s lyrics were often dark and romantic, reflecting the band’s fascination with love and death.

The Image: The Dogs D’Amour Look

The Dogs D’Amour were known for their distinctive look, which combined elements of glam rock and punk. Tyla often wore a top hat and tails, while the other band members sported leather jackets and tight pants. The band’s image helped to set them apart from other rock bands of the era, and made them a favorite of the fashion press.

Success and Controversy: Chart Success and Criticism

While the Dogs D’Amour achieved chart success with “In the Dynamite Jet Saloon” and subsequent albums, they also faced criticism for their lyrics and image. Some critics accused the band of promoting drug use and glamorizing death. Despite this, the band continued to tour and record, and maintained a loyal following of fans.

The Later Years: Lineup Changes and Decline

In the 1990s, the Dogs D’Amour experienced lineup changes and a decline in popularity. Tyla J. Pallas continued to record and tour under the Dogs D’Amour name, but without the original members. The band released several albums throughout the decade, but their commercial success waned.

Legacy: The Dogs D’Amour’s Influence

Despite their decline in popularity, the Dogs D’Amour’s influence can still be felt in rock music today. The band’s mix of glam and blues rock, combined with Tyla’s poetic lyrics, helped to pave the way for later bands such as The Black Crowes and The Darkness. The Dogs D’Amour’s image and style also continue to inspire fashion designers and musicians alike.

Conclusion: The Dogs D’Amour Today

Today, the Dogs D’Amour continue to be remembered as one of the most distinctive and influential British rock bands of the 1980s. While the band may not have achieved the same level of commercial success as some of their peers, their legacy lives on through their music, image, and style. Tyla J. Pallas continues to record and tour, and the Dogs D’Amour’s influence can be heard in the work of countless rock musicians around the world.