V/A - Doghouse 100

It's quite a surprise that indie label Doghouse Records has put out as many releases as they have, this compilation being #100. Sadly though, this isn't a disc celebrating the entire Doghouse catalogue. Instead, it's an overview of the label's current roster. Not to say that's a bad thing, but it seems like the label could have done something a little more interesting for a commemorative release. The compilation kicks off with an unreleased All-American Rejects song, "The Cigarette Song", a slightly annoying but not horrible cut from the now major label pretty boys. The Break adds "We Live Without Sleep", a hard driving melodic punk song by one of the most underrated bands around today. Skip the Celebrity track if you're out driving late at night and don't want to risk a wreck from falling asleep. Feable Weiner's "San Deem Us Ready" is incredibly catchy pop punk with sweet harmonies...it's hard to not like just for its sake of being fun. Gamface does some acoustic version of one of their songs. Maybe a good thing for a Gameface fan but not good for introducing kids to the band. Same with the Honarary Title track. Limbeck's poppy alt-country is definitely one of the best on the disc, River City High has definitely progressed since the last time I heard them, Say Anything should say nothing (ha)---well, I won't be that harsh, they've got talent, but their singer needs some work. Sunday Driver, well, it's filler. Doghouse 100 is priced at $5.98, so purchasing wouldn't kill your wallet, but at the same time, you're not getting much for your money. 10 tracks, some filler, and nothing incredible. But Doghouse Records is a solid label, and congratulations to them on their long trek to 100. Maybe for #200 they'll give us something a little more complete. [www.doghouserecords.com]