A band of tuneful hippies for which sad songs hold no sway and harmonies know no bounds, Dr. Dog has never been a tough sell. The Philly-based quintet has changed lineups over the years but never swayed from its essential core. Scott McMicken's high, elastic voice recalls the lysergic mid '90s alt-pop of Tripping Daisy and the Flaming Lips, but the harmonies and piano-and-guitar driven arrangements show the imprint of Van Dyke Parks and all eras of the Beach Boys. Five-plus years of blog buzz and critical love hasn't enlarged the band's visibility in many significant ways, but Dr. Dog's modest but fervent fan base treats every song like a No. 1 summer jam.
Recommended Cocktail Pairing: Something hoppy like an IPA or anything to combat the inevitable dry mouth brought on by contact highs.
