Album Review – The Sheepdogs Keep Out The Storm

27 March 2026 rocknews

The Sheepdogs Prove Classic Rock Is Still Thriving With Keep Out Of The Storm

Twenty years into their career, The Sheepdogs continue to prove that classic guitar-driven rock can still feel vibrant, relevant and full of life. Their latest album Keep Out Of The Storm captures the band at their most instinctive, blending huge riffs, soulful grooves and rich vocal harmonies into a record that feels both timeless and immediate.

Signature Twin-Guitar Sound at the Core

Built around the core lineup of Ewan Currie, Ryan Gullen, Shamus Currie and Ricky Paquette, the album leans heavily on the band’s trademark twin-guitar sound. The interplay between Currie and Paquette drives much of the record’s energy, delivering warm analogue tones and melodic leads that feel rooted firmly in classic rock tradition.

Proudly Worn Influences

The influences are proudly worn on the sleeve. The dual-guitar swagger throughout the album recalls the iconic sound of Thin Lizzy, while the blues-infused crunch of songs like “Bad For Your Health” carries echoes of Led Zeppelin. Elsewhere, the loose, groove-driven feel of “Take A Look At Me Riding” hints at the timeless rock ‘n’ roll spirit of The Rolling Stones, and the melodic warmth that runs through the album wouldn’t feel out of place alongside the classic catalogue of Bad Company.

The Emotional Anchor: “Keep Out Of The Storm”

At the heart of the record is the title track “Keep Out Of The Storm.” Currie has described the song as the album’s emotional and conceptual anchor, imagining powerful, clear voices capable of carrying its direct melody. Lyrically, the track taps into a recurring theme in his songwriting: the search for home and a sense of belonging. The line “I got to find another home” captures that restless spirit perfectly.

Lead Single “Nobody But You” Makes an Impact

The album’s lead single “Nobody But You” provides one of the most immediate moments on the record. Driven by bright guitars and a sing-along chorus, the track has already proven its appeal, climbing to #11 on Active Rock and #13 on Billboard Mainstream Rock. It’s the kind of song that feels tailor-made for festival crowds and late-night drives alike.

Dynamic Tracks and Road-Worn Energy

Elsewhere, “Playing All Night Long” channels the band’s love of road-worn rock ‘n’ roll storytelling, while “Bad For Your Health” injects a heavier, riff-driven punch. The pacing across the record keeps things dynamic, shifting between swaggering rockers and more reflective, groove-laden moments.

New Chapter with Guest Drummers

Keep Out Of The Storm also marks the band’s first full-length release since the departure of longtime drummer Sam Corbett. Rather than rushing to replace him permanently, the band enlisted an impressive lineup of guest drummers, adding subtle rhythmic variety while maintaining the band’s cohesive sound.

Momentum Building After a Huge Year

The album arrives after a huge year for the band, including a sold-out cross-Canada arena tour supporting Bryan Adams, the release of companion EPs Paradise Alone and Hell Together, and the launch of their own label, Right On Records. With momentum firmly behind them, Keep Out Of The Storm feels like a natural next step rather than a reinvention.

A Timeless Reminder of Real Rock ‘n’ Roll

Ultimately, the album is a reminder of the enduring power of straightforward rock ‘n’ roll. Big riffs, warm production and heartfelt songwriting combine to create a record that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly alive. For UK fans preparing to catch the band on their upcoming European tour later this year, Keep Out Of The Storm provides the perfect soundtrack — loud, soulful and built to be played at full volume.