About The Barking Dogs

The Barking Dogs (also known as Les Barking Dogs or simply Barking Dogs) was a pioneering Anglo-French alternative rock band that left an indelible mark on the music landscape between 1988 and 1996. Founded in Paris, the band’s unique blend of energetic rock, folk, and ska—performed in both English and French—captivated a wide array of audiences across Europe. Known for their high-energy performances and distinctive sound, The Barking Dogs garnered a reputation as one of the most dynamic live acts of the era.

Over the span of their eight-year career, The Barking Dogs underwent numerous lineup changes, with over 20 members contributing their talents to the band. The diverse mix of musicians, who played more than 40 different instruments, is a testament to the band’s commitment to musical experimentation and innovation. This eclecticism was at the heart of their sound, allowing them to explore a wide range of genres while maintaining a unique voice in the alternative rock scene.

Musical Style and Influences

The band’s musical style is often described as a fusion of fast-paced, energetic rock, folk, and ska. Drawing on a wide variety of influences, The Barking Dogs crafted a sound that was both accessible and boundary-pushing, appealing to fans of punk, folk, and alternative rock. The bilingual nature of their songs—sung in both English and French—allowed them to bridge cultural divides and connect with a diverse fan base across Europe.

Formation and Early Years

Formed in Paris in 1988, The Barking Dogs quickly became known for their raw, unfiltered approach to music and performance. The band’s early years were marked by a relentless gig schedule, performing in the streets and metro stations of Paris, as well as in cities such as Zürich, Amsterdam, and Berlin. By the early 1990s, their fanbase had expanded significantly, setting the stage for the band’s transition from street performances to larger venues.

Founding WTPL Music and the Band’s Entrepreneurial Spirit

In 1991, The Barking Dogs took a significant step in controlling their creative and business direction by founding their own record label, WTPL Music. This entrepreneurial move allowed them to produce and distribute their music independently, further cementing their status as innovative and self-sufficient artists. All of their albums were released under WTPL Music, with distribution in France handled by the label itself. This move not only gave the band greater control over their creative output but also played a key role in shaping the alternative music landscape of the time.

Discography

The Barking Dogs released four albums during their career, each showcasing their evolving sound and growing musical sophistication. Their discography includes:

  • Une Nuit Tranquille Chez Les Barking Dogs (1991): The debut album that introduced their eclectic style and laid the foundation for their subsequent success.
  • Bark! (1993): A critically acclaimed album that solidified their reputation in the alternative rock scene.
  • Live (1994): A testament to their prowess as a live act, this album captured the raw energy and excitement of their performances.
  • Spasm (1996): The band’s final album, marking the culmination of their musical journey and the end of an era.

Touring and Legacy

Throughout their career, The Barking Dogs were renowned for their relentless touring schedule. In their first three years, the band performed an estimated 3,000 to 4,000 times in various European cities, including Paris, Zürich, Amsterdam, and Berlin. Over the next five years, they embarked on extensive tours, performing more than 600 concerts across Europe. Their live shows were legendary for their intensity and passion, earning them a dedicated following wherever they went.

The band played in numerous countries, including France, England, Ireland, Spain, Belgium, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Denmark, Germany, Austria, Slovakia, and Italy. This extensive touring helped to cement their reputation as one of the hardest-working and most beloved acts in the European alternative rock scene.

Members

  • Hugo Scott (1988-1996): Lead vocals, accordion, guitar, tin whistle, whistling, keyboards
  • Keith Farquhar (1988-1993): Guitar, vocals
  • Jason Barnard (1989-1996): Double bass, bass, guitar, backing vocals
  • Chris Lea (1992-1996): Bass, guitar, violin, mandolin, flugelhorn, percussion, trumpet
  • Marcus Godwyn (1992-1996): Drums, percussion
  • Scott Taylor (1991-1993): Guitar, vocals

The Band’s Impact

The Barking Dogs remain an influential figure in the alternative rock scene, not just for their music but also for their entrepreneurial spirit. Their founding of WTPL Music in 1991 serves as a prime example of the band’s forward-thinking approach to the music business. Their commitment to artistic independence and their ability to sustain a successful career on their own terms has inspired countless musicians and entrepreneurs in the creative industries.

Although The Barking Dogs disbanded in 1996, their legacy endures through their music and the lasting impact they had on the European alternative rock scene. Their innovative sound, combined with their entrepreneurial achievements, continues to inspire new generations of musicians and business leaders.

The Barking Dogs were more than just a band—they were pioneers in both music and business, blending artistic creativity with entrepreneurial acumen. Their eclectic sound, dynamic live shows, and commitment to independence left a lasting mark on the music industry, making them a key figure in the alternative rock movement of the late 20th century.