Fantastic Cat Delivers Timeless Rock with Their New Album Cat Out Of Hell

Experience the vibrant blend of folk and Americana rock as Fantastic Cat crafts a unified sound on their latest album, Cat Out Of Hell.

A Fresh Take on 80s-Inspired Rock by Fantastic Cat

When I stumbled upon Brian Dunne’s music in 2025, his album Clams Casino immediately struck a chord with me. It combined razor-sharp, clever lyrics without a trace of cynicism, wrapped in that irresistible Billy Joel-meets-Bruce Springsteen 1980s pop rock vibe that once ruled the airwaves. It was like discovering a hidden gem that filled a musical void I didn't realize existed. Since then, I’ve been on the lookout for more from Dunne—and guess what? More has arrived, but in a fascinating new form.

Brian Dunne is one-quarter of a singer-songwriter supergroup called Fantastic Cat, a band that feels like a reunion of NYC’s veteran music scene. Alongside him are Anthony D’Amato, Don DiLego, and Mike Montali (from Hollis Brown), all seasoned artists who seem to orbit that same retro-inspired galaxy. Each member channels a slightly out-of-time vibe, which makes their formation feel like a modern-day Traveling Wilburys—only with a twist all their own.

When Supergroups Become Actual Bands: The Magic of Cat Out Of Hell

Unlike the Wilburys, whose albums sometimes felt like a collection of artists simply sharing a jam session, Fantastic Cat’s Cat Out Of Hell achieves something rarer—they genuinely sound like a cohesive band. This isn’t just a side project or a casual collaboration; it’s a full-on blend of complementary yet distinct musical voices coalescing into a finely tuned, unified sound.

I was eager to pick out the individual voices, especially Dunne's, given how I discovered the group through him. But, surprise! The tracks don’t spotlight solo artists so much as they showcase a seamless melding of talents. Even when Dunne takes the lead vocals, you can’t help but notice DiLego’s shimmering guitar work or D’Amato’s folksy rhythms intertwining to build a rich sonic tapestry. The result is a collection of folk- and Americana-tinged rockers that reveal emotional depths with every listen.

In many ways, Fantastic Cat reminds me of the ’90s Minnesota legends Golden Smog, another supergroup that excelled by emphasizing collective chemistry over individual flash.

Heartland Anthems and Emotional Layers

Take the early single “Don’t Let Go,” for example. It’s a heartland rock anthem with boldness and grit, calling listeners to hold fast to their youthful passions—not in a naive way, but with the hard-earned wisdom of experience. Lines like “Nothing you can buy can save what you sold” hit with a bittersweet punch, hinting at sacrifices and lessons learned.

Other tracks like “I Spoke To God A Lot Last Year” might sound jangly and bright at first, but their lyrical depth reveals mature reflections beneath the surface. The twangy bitterness of “The Waiting Room” and the dark, urgent plea of “Elevator” (which reminds me of the Wilburys’ raw “Rattled”) speak to a world where self-reliance is the only option—no rescue is coming, so you’ve got to save yourself.

This album feels like a cathartic release for a band of friends who just want to let loose and have fun, but it ends up resonating deeply with listeners who crave substance beneath the surface.

Playful Vibes and Summer Soundtracks

Of course, Fantastic Cat doesn’t shy away from the fun side of music. The opening track “Donnie Takes The Bus” echoes the easy-going vibes of Dawes and would be a perfect soundtrack for your next summer BBQ. Meanwhile, “How’s That Working Out” delivers a tense, exhilarating chase feel—like a heartbeat racing against the clock.

The only track that didn’t quite connect for me was the closer, “Nobody Better.” It takes a serious tone that feels a bit too straightforward, losing the playful energy that defines much of the album.

Still, the rest of Cat Out Of Hell captures the band’s signature “do-anything” spirit. Known for swapping instruments during live shows, Fantastic Cat’s energy comes through both in the music and their playful attitude. Even their FAQ page is a clever and fun read, showcasing a group that doesn’t take themselves too seriously but always brings their A-game.

The Perfect Porch Music and More to Come

As warmer months approach, Cat Out Of Hell is the ideal soundtrack for porch sittin’, lazy afternoons, and road trips. It’s an album made for good times, emotional connection, and musical craftsmanship all rolled into one. For fans like me, it also serves as a satisfying bridge until Brian Dunne drops his next solo album.

The chemistry and spirit Fantastic Cat brings to the table prove that supergroups can transcend the sum of their parts and create something truly memorable.

FAQ

• Who are the members of Fantastic Cat?
  The band consists of Brian Dunne, Anthony D’Amato, Don DiLego, and Mike Montali (from Hollis Brown).
• What genre does Fantastic Cat’s music fall into?
  Their sound blends folk, Americana, and heartland rock with an 80s pop rock influence.
• How does Cat Out Of Hell differ from other supergroup albums?
  Instead of just jamming on leftover songs, Fantastic Cat creates a cohesive band sound where members’ styles blend seamlessly.
• What are some standout tracks on the album?
  “Don’t Let Go,” “I Spoke To God A Lot Last Year,” “The Waiting Room,” and “Elevator” are notable for their emotional depth and strong melodies.
• What vibe does the album convey?
  It balances fun, playful tunes with mature, introspective lyrics, making it perfect for both casual listening and deep reflection.

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