Here To Destroy.

Forget viral videos and social media hype. Split Dogs, a Bristol-based quartet of rock’n’roll revivalists has been pounding stages up and down the country, building their name through raw, high-voltage gigs. The band has just unleashed its second album Here To Destroy and wrapped up a sell-out UK tour that’s cemented them as one of punk’s most exciting new acts.

Here To Destroy is a nine track blast that captures Split Dogs’ love for classic rock. Recorded live to tape in just three days, the album trades polish for a raw, vintage feel full of humming amplifiers.

Earlier this year, Split Dogs completed their first headline tour across the UK selling out night after night. Those who caught the shows know exactly why: on stage, frontwoman Harry Atkins belts out vocals with the gritty, fearless charisma of Lemmy Kilmister amidst a sugar rush with every set feeling like a celebration of rock’s unruly glory. They aren’t chasing trends or playing the social media game. Split Dogs stand out by unapologetically going back to rock ‘n’ roll’s roots - and inviting everyone along for the wild ride.

We spoke to vocalist Harry Atkins and guitarist Mil Martinez about their new album, their sell-out tour, and keeping the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll alive:

The name Split Dogs is a reference to ‘Return of the Living Dead’. Can you explain the reference? what’s the link between raucous rock ‘n’ roll and b-movie splatter?

I think if you have that kind of taste for B movies, sub culture, trashy tv, you’re probably gonna dig rock n roll music. The two go together.

What does the phrase ‘rock ‘n’ roll’ mean to you guys? What is the ‘spirit of rock ‘n’ roll’?

Rock ‘n’ roll is a feeling, a swing. Not all rock bands are rock ‘n’ roll. It has to have that swing, the dance-ability. It comes from within, it’s a spirit. The spirit is hard to define. It’s a feeling. Kind of like being in love. It just moves you.

Can you talk about the inspiration for your single Lafayette?

Lafayette is the name of the club where my mum used to dance. The lyrics are all about growing in the Black Country. It’s also a nod to Mils brother who passed away two years ago. He was his first song writing partner and a massive inspiration on Mil. It’s a very sentimental song for us.

What were some of the most memorable moments from your recent Uk tour? How were the crowds?

There were so many! We met some amazing people and played with some great bands. Our Manchester show was very special as we sold it out having only ever played in Manchester once before so it took us by surprise. Ending it playing at Rough Trade in Bristol was the cherry on the top though. Home town crowd, massive energy, the room was full of love and it was very special for us.

Do you have any pre-show rituals that help you deliver such raucous performances?

We always do a little warm up together before we go on which gets us in the mood. But as soon as we get on stage and start playing something takes over.

Split Dogs stands in stark opposition to the commodified and soulless music industry. What do you see as the biggest issues in today’s music landscape that you guys are trying to challenge?

There are a lot of issues in the music industry today. From what Spotify pays artists, to sexism and misogyny, AI, the cashless society we have fallen into negativity impacts grassroots venues and promoters however as a band the only thing we can do is try and uplift people. Bring what we have to the stage and allow people to let their hair down and have a good time.

How has Bristol influenced your music?

Bristol is a city full of creative, interesting and passionate people. We started in Bristol and we wouldn’t be here without our punk community. Big up Death or Glory, Bristol Skum Collective and The Chelsea!

What do you think it is about your music that has managed to build a loyal following in such a short time?

There aren’t a lot of rock ‘n’ roll bands around anymore and people still need that. We make the music we love and we are beyond grateful that people love what we make.

You’ve just finished your first uk tour, and released your second album. What’s next for Split Dogs?

During our EU tour on our days off we got to work on album three. Two brand new songs have made the set list so if you want to hear them you will have to get yourself out to a show. We have some exciting festival spots this year and we are not stopping anytime soon.