By Michael Alahverdian, Rock At Night New England

Review: Past Dog Beach’s double/single package – “Empty” and “Sorrow” – Release date July 22, 2026

The latest release from the post punk/psychedelic band Past Dog Beach, including singles ‘Empty’ and ‘Sorrow’, is an attention-getter right from the start. Trying to compare it with anything is nearly impossible, but I do hear tidbits of Pink Floyd and Blue Öyster Cult in their musical style. Past Dog Beach is an American band created as a solo project on the Big Island of Hawaii by Keith Christmas before returning to Detroit, MI. This fine trio consists of Ray Christopher Slagle (bass), Keith Christmas (guitar, vocals), and Billy Holmes (drums). Recorded, mixed, and mastered by Patrick Lukowicz.

‘Empty’ delivers a haunting look at emotional emptiness, addiction, and the loss of humility through cryptic, thought-provoking lyrics. Lines like “Like a drug death angel” and “Escapades in mental darkness” paint vivid pictures without spelling everything out, allowing listeners to find their own meaning within the lyrics. For fans of darker, introspective rock that values atmosphere as much as melody, this is a song that lingers long after the final note. The video that coincides with this song is as entertaining as the song itself.

‘Sorrow’ begins with an old-fashioned-sounding movie audio clip and is followed by a beautifully crafted song that is easy on the ears—all in all, some great writing and producing on this recording.

Both songs, with their surreal writing style, invite repeated listens, rewarding those willing to dig beneath the surface.