American Dog

American Dog operates as a hard rock trio based in Columbus, Ohio, and centers on vocalist and bassist Michael Hannon, whose prior work included the 1980s metal groups Salty Dog and Dangerous Toys. Shaped by early listening to Ted Nugent, Black Sabbath, and AC/DC, Hannon recruited guitarist Steve Threado and drummer Keith Pickens, the latter having performed in a competing band. The group issued its debut album, Last of a Dying Breed, in April 2000, drawing support from listeners who felt radio and video programming offered too little raw, straightforward rock & roll. The live studio EP Six-Pack followed, its six songs devoted entirely to drinking. As of 2002 the hard-rocking trio was preparing a third release, Red, White, Black and Blue.