Releases from 2009

Reggae Dubline Corporation - Broadcastin' Vibes     Release Date: November 26th 2009 You'll play Broadcastin' Vibes and you will immediately recognize the sound. With this album, local band Reggae Dubline Corporation (RDC) doesn't waste time and dive right into the vibe. Although the band stays very faithful to their style, Broadcastin' Vibes still bring some new elements on the table. Slow Down includes harmonica (played by Alex Giguère) and keyboard played by band member MasterBruce who usually take care of the turntables. I really liked these new ingredients, it is unfortunate that they did not use these instruments in other songs. Love Seat is played with an accoustic guitar which I thought fit perfectly with the romantic and slighly melancholic atmosphere of the song. It is great when a band incorporate something new, and it's even better when it's well integrated. There are two things, however, that really bugged me on this album. First of all, the "radio tuning effect" have been done so many times before. It's even less original when suddenly it tunes in to a station that plays a song from the band. And I won't elaborate on the obvious plug that is made thereafter. Secondly, was it really necessary to include the name of the band in their lyrics so many times? And I am not saying only in one song but at least three songs out of eight mention Reggae Dubline Corporation or RDC and that several times! Slow Down even mentions the name of this album and their previous one, Ruffmix. I guess it's in case you would forget what you are currently listening. Although I thought it was a bit short for an album (only 8 songs, 1 being an Interlude) Broadcastin' Vibes delivers exactly what you would expect from RDC: a good vibe and some warm, sexy music. Favorite Songs: Slow Down, Love Seat and No Fiction. Rating: 7/10

Cherry Poppin' Daddies - Skaboy JFK     Release Date: September 29th 2009 I was always under the impression that the Cherry Poppin’ Daddies were a swing band, (I’m sure I’m not the only one) due to the immense success of Zoot Suit Riot in 1998. But apparently, the band has quite a vast catalog of styles they like to play and it turned out that ska was one of them. Skaboy JFK is a compilation of ska songs they have written over the years and some new ones: Skaboy JFK, Slapstick, Pool Shark and 2:29. Within those previously released songs, a few have been re-recorded but except Soul Cadillac, from which they removed the females vocals, the difference remains minimal. The album touches various styles of ska from traditional to third wave but also contains a bit of reggae, soul and jazzy riffs here and there. I expected a lot of horns and they are certainly omnipresent throughout the album but I was especially surprised by the piano/keyboard in End Of The Night, Hammerblow and Sockable Face Club. The last one is particularly fast paced and honestly turned me off the first time I listened to it. However, once I got passed all the ridiculous cartoon sounds in the middle, it started growing on me. I wouldn’t say it is as strong as their hit album Zoot Suit Riot, but it’s not too far behind. If you like the band in general and don’t own many of their other albums, you should definitely consider getting this one. Favorite Songs: Soul Cadillac, Slapstick, End Of The Night and Hammerblow Rating: 8.5/10

Skankan - Try To Feel It!     Release Date: September 14th 2009 Once in a while, I get approached by bands to review their album. Although I’m always happy to hear new music, I never guarantee a review right away in case the band needs some more polishing. However, I always take the time to listen and sometimes, I come across a real jewel. Try To Feel It! by polish band Skankan is definitely one of those. I’d be lying if I would say that I loved it right away after listening to it once. I was a bit thrown off at first by the Polish language that contains a lot of “z”, “v” and “ch”. It doesn’t take long to get pass it though. You might even find yourself signing along like I did! The album does contain three songs written in English; Feel It, Ole and Situation Ska Vibration and they are interpreted as well as the Polish ones in terms of vocals. I heard that it took the band 5 years to get this record together and it shows; the music is impeccable. Although there isn’t much extended solos, the full horns section fall right where it belongs and never bury the vocals. Transitions of rhythms are done smoothly. A good example would be in Niefart when the ska beat temporarily leaves the place for a reggae vibe. I especially enjoyed that little part. They explored transitions also in Punk’O’Ska and Historia Pinglarza. The last one particularly reminded me of Whole Lotta Milka. What I really love about this album is that it’s real third wave ska. Not ska pop, not ska punk. Except for Feel It which is actually a reggae song and Punk’O’Ska which, as you can expect from the title, has a bit of a punk edge by moment, Try To Feel It! is good third wave like I haven’t heard in a while. It’s well paced, highly skankable and dangerously catchy. Not a single song feel like a “filler”, every track is unique and original. It’s the kind of album that you listen from start to finish. Try To Feel It! is definitely my best ska discovery of 2009. If you’re not impressed by the language barrier, you should certainly give this album a listen. Favorite Songs: Seriously the whole thing is great but especially Pani Wybaczy, Nic Sie Tu Nie Zmienia and Brunetki, Blondynki. Rating: 9.5/10

Brixton Robbers - Rocks And Cranes     Release Date: August 28th 2009 This is the first album for Brixton Robbers but this local band is definitely not new to the Montreal scene. After listening to Rocks And Cranes once, I was happy to find much more ska than I expected. Even though there are no horns, the fast ska punk the band performs, is highly satisfying to me, remembering me a little bit of the Suicide Machines. Their lyrics are generally serious but without giving moral lessons. However, they don’t take themselves too seriously either. They did cover Rock Lobster from the B52’s which is well done and catchy. They even included a small sample of Family Guy at the beginning and end of the song. Also, I thought the last track, Fuck the Shit was particularly humoristic and it definitely figures in my favorites songs on the album. I find it was the perfect finale as it truly left me in a good mood. I know the screaming vocals go with the style of music they are playing and I personally have no problem with it. However, it would have been nice to have 2 or 3 songs with less screaming to offer some more vocal variation throughout the album. There are back vocals but they are more subtle and often present while the main voice is already singing and therefore we don’t always hear them very well. Rocks And Cranes is a great start overall and definitely an energetic album that reflects the quality of their live performance. Favorite Songs: Bright Light, Green Grass, Rock Lobster and Fuck the Shit Rating: 8/10

Big D And The Kids Table - Fluent In Stroll     Release Date: July 7th 2009 The big change on Fluent In Stroll is the female chorists. Sure it brings a new element but it failed to really innovate. The ladies have nice voices don’t get me wrong, but every time they sing is to repeat what McWane just said or some annoying onomatopoeia. Best exemple: the beginning of Fluent In Stroll. I just can’t stand it. The only times they don’t get on my nerve is when they are doing back vocals like in Chin Up, Boy. Another major problem with this album is the lyrics. First, the band really lacked imagination in their lyrics. The band didn’t go very deep on this album as most of the tracks are about love. But that itself could have not being so bad if there wasn’t some much repetition! And I mean a lot! Moreover, the delivery is rather monotonous. Although that is not too new with the band, it seems to be more obvious on Fluent In Stroll.Describing The Sky is not too bad musically but the singing is a bit boring. Same scenario with Where Did All The Women Go? Oddly enough though, I love Been Wishing On and Chin Up, Boy. The second one got me hooked instantly even with the repetitive lyrics. The female vocals are smooth, the music is fun and catchy, and it’s romantic without being too cheesy. It proves that Big D can pull out good songs even with a lot of bad. Unfortunately, what I will remember from Fluent In Stroll is the bad vocals and the repetitive lyrics. It’s a shame because I can’t say that the music itself is bad. I, I, I  has a nice swing feeling to it, but it get buried by the vocals that takes all the place. I personally think that Big D needs to go back to making ska punk. Right now, we are miles away from the sound that made their popularity back in 1999. Favorite Songs: Not Fucking Around, A Kiss a Week, Been Wishing On and Chin Up, Boy Rating: 5/10

The Aggrolites - IV     Release Date: June 9th 2009 It seems like for the past 2 years, everything involving the Aggrolites was turning into gold. I particularly liked Reggae Hit L.A. in 2007 but then albums involving the band from near or far were blessed also: Tim’s Armstrong's A Poet’s Life which the band participated in its entirety, and Hit And Run by One Night Band which was produced by Brian Dixon, were both excellent albums in my opinion. Things looked good under the sun for this formation of L.A. and I was blindly convinced of another flawless album when they announced IV was coming in June, the day of my birthday on top of that, “It must be a sign!” I suddenly came back on earth the first time I listened to IV. Experimentation or change of style, their fourth opus is distinctively lacking the dirty reggae the band is renowned for. Mixing mostly with soul, making me think of the Pietasters by moment, seems like the new album as turned into just normal reggae, a real let down for me after such high expectations. I especially miss those original organ riffs and noises they often added to their songs on their previous record, a good example would be Work It. The album in general, sounds older, like back in the 70’s with its funk and reggae ballads. It’s not unappealing, but I personally like a more modern sound. Let’s not be dramatic here. Though IV might not be the album of the summer, it’s still far from being uninteresting. With 21 songs you are sure to find something you like and although it’s lengthy sometimes, no songs feel like a filler. I already loved The Sufferer which featured on their MySpace, however, The Least I Could Do comes to mind right away as a pure little jewel. It’s a hymn to honor all the parents out there; anyone with strong family values won’t be able to get enough of this song. Musically, you can’t go wrong with The Aggrolites. They are the unquestionable kings of modern reggae. As always, Wagner’s voice is impeccable, so is the rest of the band. Although it’s not beating their previous record, IVis still worth the detour. Favorite Songs: The Sufferer, By Her Side, Keep Moving On and The Least I Could Do Rating: 7/10

Rancid - Let The Dominoes     Release Date: June 2nd 2009 Rancid's seventh album Let The Dominoes Fall  is nothing short of disappointment. Many people have anticipated this album, and it seems either people love it or they hate it. I give Rancid full credit for their experimentation in delving into different genres of music. This was predominant in the album Indestructible and now again in their latest record. East bay night amplifies what Rancid has become, essentially the band is lacking that creative energy from their earlier days.However, Up To No Good shows with full force the band's ska element and it is definitely one of my favorite songs on the album. That's Just The Way It Is Now  is very catchy, its a very unique song that actually made me laugh the first time I heard it just for the cheesy disco beat! I love the song LA River although many would argue its annoyance. I have always enjoyed Matt's voice and all of the songs he sings! We also get a country feel off the song Civilian Ways which is written from the perspective of a wartime soldier. This album can be best described as a compilation of all the sounds, styles and the band's journey over the past 18 years. Despite this album's controversy, Rancid's music will always be as influential, energetic, and catchy as ever. Their true fans will forever be united in their love of Rancid's music and message, and be there to support them through thick and thin. (Review by Nat) Favorite Songs: Up To No Good, LA River, That's Just The Way It Is Now and Civilian Ways. Rating: 6/10

Subb - To This Beat     Release Date: June 2nd 2009 I’ve been literally waiting a year for this album: since that show at l’Hémisphère Gauche where they played for the first time material that would be on this record. After what I heard that night, I had great expectations of what would come after The Motions. To This Beat is similar to The Motions in a certain way: it’s again a perfect balance between ska and punk like only Subb can achieve it, but leaning a bit more towards ska and reggae. No surprise since Montreal’s reggae sensation Jah Cutta participates in 3 of the songs (if it’s not more) and really adds something "old school" to the tracks without ever sounding out of place. The album still contains punk rock songs here and there with the screaming and all but they are rather short, or with a bit of ska in it. For this reason you never really loose the ska vibe. Flashbacks with Looking Down, which sounds like a song that could have come out in the 90’s and let’s not forget Reggae Radio that contains part of Shanty Town and Johnny Too Bad. I Heart MTL, To This Beat and I Can’t Hardly Wait just to name a few, makes me feel like this album is a bit more personal than their previous release. Don’t fret, they haven’t lost their critical minds. Black Gold, Tipton Three and Fuhrerbunker are those songs. Thank you Subb for elaborating on new topics instead of just make war songs after war songs. Granted Tipton Three is about Afghanistan but at least The Motions didn’t touch the subject. My only disappointment, is that On and On didn’t make it on the album. I thought it was great live and was looking forward to the studio version. Oh well maybe next album! In the meantime, there is no doubt that To This Beat is a solid album. Favorite Songs: I Heart MTL, Shottas, Reggae Radio and To This Beat Rating: 9/10

Madness - The Liberty Of Norton Folgate     Release Date: May 18th 2009 There is something definitely mature and nostalgic about this newest opus from UK legend Madness and experience is obviously in for something. The band sings a lot about love and relationships but they let down the cotton candy love for a more realistic approach without, however, falling into negativity. Sugar and Spice depict exactly this as it refers to a couple that fell into the routine and seems to be growing apart. If you want high quality music, Madness delivers. The way the piano is played is typical Madness and you will recognize their style immediately. Although the female vocals from Rhoda Dakar (The Bodysnatchers) are debatable in On The Town, the mix of violin, piano and saxophones is superb and it’s a good thing that they exploited various combinations of the 3 in some other of their songs. I love how the album has been perfectly recorded as you can hear clearly all the instruments all the time. The Liberty of Norton Folgate, the last song, is about 10 minutes long. I know what you think, WAY too long! You would be mistaken to think this since track 15 is actually 4-5 different songs put together. The transitions between them are subtle and smooth. The various rhythms will make you travel into time and places. Not much band can pull out such a lengthy song without loosing the interest of the listener but Madness are definitely masters of their sound. Except MK II and Africa, I liked all the other songs a lot. But I can understand that this album might be less appealing to profound third wavers and those not familiar with the formation. If you are looking for a more ska-oriented album, check out their earliest stuff. The Liberty of Norton Folgate is more a mix of ska, rock and British pop but in my opinion, this record is simply delightful. Favorite Songs: We Are London, Forever Young, Dust Devil and On The Town Rating: 9.5/10

Stepper - Way Out     Release Date: February 19th 2009 Although their first album Rot In Style was good, it didn’t get me hook as much as I would have like it to. What kept my interest in the band was actually their live performances that are always fun and energetic Way Out is a different story however. I found it better than the previous one; more ska, more reggae is exactly what I wanted to hear from this great local band. Way Out starts and finish very strongly. High And Low sets the mood right away as the majority of the tracks stays in a third wave ska beat, yet each of them has its own uniqueness. From their repertoire, the catchiest songs are definitely Down To Business and Hotter Than Hot. The last one being the reason why I bought Rot In Style originally, I was delighted to find it on this record The lyrics are sometimes debatable though. Some songs I find are a bit vague as some others, like Running From Home, seemed to make more sense lyrically. There is only one track that I liked less and it’s Bring Us Together. Far from being a horrible song, it just seemed a bit out of place in my opinion. The last song is Way Out. (Is it supposed to be a hidden song?) Honestly, when I first heard it I thought: “Oh no, they’re not gonna try to make a punk song!” Well they did and it turned out great! Even the reggae ending doesn’t seem so random anymore. An album that actually surprised me, I like that a lot! Favorite Songs: High and Low, Down to Business, Hotter Than Hot and Way Out Rating: 8.5/10

Rudeboy - Self-Titled     Release Date: January 29th 2009 Ten years after Shut Up And Dance, Ottawa's rudeboys are back with a brand new, completely DIY self titled album. Strongly anchored in their 2 tone roots, this second record is faithful to the sound of the first yet not redundant. The album is kinda divided in two, although I found the first 6 songs more appealing and skankable, the second part is still good and interesting. It starts strong with Stand Your Ground and 24-7-52, the second being my favorite song on the album, then slow down a bit on Skanks Around and Naked.The album contains one instrumental, Midnight In Moscow which is a cover from a band I am not familiar with. Great cover though and totally skankable. I found that the horns took less place, are less loud, more subtle than what I usually hear from other ska bands. A fact that would have normally disapoint me, made me discover the other sounds such as the piano and the guitar riffs which I don't focus on most of the time. Proved me that there's more to a ska band than horns. In overall, it is a great album that is giving us some sun and warmth in this cold month of January. I also found myself liking it a little bit more everytime. Favorite Songs: Stand Your Ground, 24-7-52, Skanks Around and My Life Rating: 8/10

Releases from 2008

Rude City Riot - Self Titled EP     Release Date: November 22nd 2008 I was already familiar with a few of their songs thanks to their MySpace profile. I fell in love with Shots & Pills which is my favorite song on the album. I found it's one of the cutest love song I have ever heard. It got me hooked instantly and made want to hear more from the band. Most of their songs are upbeat, skankable and fun except for the second track, 25 Years, which is a bit more serious and has a slower pace but it is still a great song. Their lyrics are smart (and sometimes even humoristic); they actually are talking about something and not just throwing sentences that rimes here and there. It reflects some sort of maturity although this is their first CD. Their sound is a bit hard to describe as it has an old and yet modern feeling to it. It is ska but the guitars will also rock from time to time. I know it is only an EP but it definately deserve a 9/10 since it is an excellent and very satisfying debute in my opinion. Rude City Riot is my best discovery of 2008 and I personally can't wait to see what will come up next. Favorite Songs: All of them but especially Shots & Pills Rating: 9/10

Tri-State Conspiracy - Nuisance     Release Date: November 22nd 2008 The first full lenght album of the band, High Strung Mess, released in 2005 was simply amazing. It contains one of my all time favorite ska song Hell To Pay  therefore I had great expectations for their second album. However, I got a bit disapointed. The album isn't bad per se, it's just not ska at all. Nuisance is more focused on swing than anything else. I like swing but this album just doesn't get me hook as other swing bands I know. Tri-State Conspiracy seems to be less melodic then on their first release. Their music is fast paced and still danceable but they have the habit to yell a lot during their songs. I still sometimes can't figure out what the rest of the band is screaming in the background. However, there are a few elements that are worth the detour. I personally loved the fourth song The Clone. It is more the kind of swing I am used to and it got me dancing almost automatically. Also, the horns are still as impeccable as on the first album. They go crazy fast and most of their songs contains sax solos or long horns parts which I liked. Tri-State Conspiracy is definately a talented band; I just hope they will return to doing ska for their next album. Favorite Songs: The Clone, 1075 and Mess Around Rating: 6/10

Ska-P - Lagrimas y Gozos     Release Date: October 28th 2008 Ska-P is one of these bands that you either love or hate. If you already love Ska-P, you will definately love Lagrimas y Gozos. During their 3 years hiatus, Ska-P didn't loose their spark at all. They gave us in 2008 an album relatively similar to Planeta Eskoria and Que Corra La Voz!  in sound, but as thrilling as we can expect from the band. Let's face it, fast pace ska-punk is almost a trademark for Ska-P and I doubt they will ever change their style. They do slow down by moment for some reggae and variations, only to come back bigger and louder. The horns are always as omnipresent as they were on previous albums. Musically, the only change comes with the keyboard that change from keyboard to piano to organ to some electric keyboard effects. The band unfortunately let go of the accordeon that was the charm of Que Corra La Voz! All the songs on Lagrimas y Gozos are at least good, most of them being excellent in my opinion. Some songs stand out a bit more than other. A good exemple would be Fuego Y Miedo that has a little western/cowboy feeling into it. There's even an harmonica solo in the middle of the song. Another one that comes to mind is La Colmena, that switch suddenly from slow to super fast and contains a few sentences in French. I bothered to get the lyrics translated and realized that they are speaking of the same topics they have before; mostly political and social issues, war, the american empire, immigration, religion... Interesting note, included on the CD is the videoclip of Crimen Sollicitationis. There isn't a french translation for the lyrics like they did for Planeta Eskoria and Que Corra La Voz!  though. Favorite Songs: El Libertador, Crimen Sollicitationis, El Tecero De La Foto and Wild Spain Rating: 9/10

One Night Band - Hit & Run     Release Date: October 7th 2008 To be honest, I thought Hit & Run sounded a lot like the Aggrolites in the beginning which didn't really surprised me since the album was produced by Brian Dixon. However, after a few times listening to it, I was able to catch the nuances and variations which differ the two bands. Hit & Run starts strongly with Wait a Minute and doesn't stop delivering good songs until the very end. My personal favorite is Distance but another song that rapidly caught my attention was track number three, Sammy, which I thought was very original in its lyrics. The album contains three instrumental songs: Larry Love, The Mysterious P and Safari. I liked the three of them but I would say that Larry Love definately stands out with its dirty reggae vibe and great keyboard riffs. Another thing I appreciated is that they kept their instrumental songs short. I personally loose interest of intstrumentals when they are too long. Although there are still some subtly here and there, one of the flagrant change with Hit & Run is the lack of horns compared to their first album. I say lack but I can't say that I miss them that much. They definatly make up for it musically and I believe you will have no problem loving this album even without horns. Favorite Songs: Wait A Minute, Sammy, Mama Was Right and Distance Rating: 8.5/10

Stan Or Itchy - Sweat'n'Suits     Release Date: September 26th 2008 First of all a little bit of background info: Stan Or Itchy are a female fronted band from Switzerland. And for those that are wondering, the album is English not in German although I personally wouln't have mind. The band definately falls in the Ska/Rock/Pop category. Unlike some japanease bands that does the ska/pop genre to completety leave the ska part after a while, Stan Or Ichty are strongly anchored in to their ska roots. Ska beats and horns are involved in every songs and never neglected. Even Looking Back and Say Hello that have slower pace, still sound ska and not reggae which really proves that the band has mastered their own sound. I would even dare to say they are leaning towards being ballads and yet they are not boring songs. That being said, it's the only time you'll be catching your breath since the rest of the album is fast paced ska/rock type of songs. I believe the strengh of the band resides in their chorus; they are simple but efficient and it often when the action is. Good exemple of this are Pretender Girls which totally got me skanking once the chorus started. I really liked the horns on Sweat'n'Suits, they complete the songs so well no matter what rhythm they take, fast or slow. I especially liked their sound after the chorus of Addicted to Coffee, it's totally catchy! Favorite Songs: Western Story, Trapped In A Bottle, Pretender Girls and Addicted To Coffee Rating: 8/10

Saint Alvia - Between The Lines     Release Date: September 9th 2008 Saint Alvia was to me, that one band I always heard the name but never got around the songs. Well now I know and I’m delighted. I was completely absorbed as I heard the various styles of Between The Lines. Not one song sounds like another which makes every piece unique and original. Their lyrics are clever and meaningful. I found this especially true in Trouble Keeps Me Busy, At Least and Americafioso. Although the album reviews diverse topics, Americafioso is the one that definitely stood out as it critiques the political position of Canada abroad. A lot of different sounds and instruments are mixed on Between The Lines. They added various instruments such as piano, saxophone, trumpet, harmonica and even an accordion. The album itself lean more towards rock than punk in general, but can find different influences here in there. The song Between The Lines makes me think of Rancid, and this impression comes back later on as the voice of the singer kinda sound like Tim Armstrong at times. However, they still have their own style which is unmistakable. Other genres you can find on this album are 80’s rock style, reggae/ska, country (you read right) and what can be described as a Russian waltz. Saint Alvia is definitely a flexible, versatile band and Between The Lines have so many great and different sounds that everybody is bound to like something about it. Favorite Songs: Trouble Keeps Me Busy, Romeo, Americafioso and At Least Rating: 8/10

The Creepshow - Run For Your Life     Release Date: August 26th 2008 With words like blood, devil and vampires throughout the album, it seems like Halloween is two month early. Don’t be wrong though, the Creepshow isn’t some goth or emo band (or ska for that matter) it’s a dark looking yet fun and happy band. The album really starts at track number two as the first one is a dialogue introduction. Rue Morgue Radio sets exactly the course the album will take with its strong punk/psychobilly sound. Although some could think it’s redundant, The Creepshow breaks the monotony of the genre with guitar solos, keyboard and piano, or simply slowing down the song at times. I am usually neutral the first time I hear a new album but I must admit I was shocked to find myself absorbed by this totally new sound (I’m not very familiar with all those new “billy” music style). The second and third times I was already singing along. Along with the huge bass, one think I especially liked was the vocals not only from the lead singer but also from the guys doing the back vocals. They really add something to the songs. The beginning of Take My Hand would be the best example of this. There’s nothing wrong I can say about this album. Seriously. I wish it would have been longer but it is still a very satisfying album even after the last song. I am already curious about what will follow this. Oh and if there’s something I love, it’s music you can dance to and this album definitely deliver. Run For Your Life is album you will surely go back to every once in a while as it is horrifyingly catchy! Favorite Songs: Rue Morgue Radio, Run For Your Life, Buried Alive and Take My Hand Rating: 8.5/10

Less Than Jake - GNV FLA Release Date: June 24 2008 We pretty much all had the same reaction when In With The Out Crowd came out in 2006 and I'm sure we all had our doubts about the album that would follow it. Relax, it's not as bad. Not as bad but didn't blow my mind either. I will admit that I am not the biggest fan of Less Than Jake but I just can't see what the other reviewers are so excited about. Yes it sounds much more like the band we all learned to love back in the 90's but I can't quite put my finger on what keeps me from liking this album more. GNV FLA is more a pop punk with horns than a ska album which, I guess, is to be expected with Less Than Jake. The horns didn't impress me much as they are following the music without that much variation. That surprised me since Scott Klopfenstein from Reel Big Fish contributed on this album. I had to listen the album quite a few times before getting used to it because I thought the songs sounded a bit similar. It is also a rather short album: 14 songs, less than 40 minutes. However, I think we are confronted with a more mature/honest album. Might be because this album was release on their own label, they don't seem to hold back on the contrary, they unleash their point of views about their city, political news, society without overdoing it (unlike Goldfinger) and that I liked a lot. The Space They Can't Touch is probably my favorite song on the album; it is totally skankable and it reminds me what I love about Less Than Jake. I just wish there would have been more of that. Favorite Songs: The State Of Florida, The Space They Can't Touch, Conviction Notice and Devil In My DNA Rating: 6.5/10

The Johnstones - Sex EP     Release Date: May 20 2008 I always have a hard time reviewing EPs since I feel left on my appetite because there's only a few songs on those. Although Sex is no exception, there were points that were very clear about it. First of all, it sounds much more like pop punk than ska. We don't have the typical off beat except in the song Girls which is probably the most ska you will get. I remember on Word Is Bond, horns seemed to stand out more. On Sex, the horns seemed hidden in the background. They still complete well their songs with their horns, but it is less noticable then on their previous CD. Their cover of Lump is good but not so impressive. I would have expect something that differ much more from the original. However, I liked the live version much better. Bring It Back Around sounds like a song we could find from the soundtrack of Now and Then. It has a 70's feeling in it espacially in the beginning. Although it's missing a bit of ska, the EP is less bad that I probably make it sound like. We still have the usual catchiness we can expect from The Johnstones. Also, none of the songs sound the same, we can definately detect each song's originality. The EP revolve mostly on the same themes: love, girls, relationships, which is to be expected with a CD entitled Sex. Parents don't need to worry, it is less scandalous that one could think. ;) Favorite Songs: Girls, Tonight and Bring It Back Around Rating: 7/10

The Slackers - Self Medication Release Date: April 29 2008 In being a huge Slackers fan, I was more than willing to write the review for their latest record Self Medication. New York’s The Slackers are one of the groups that have outlived ska’s fashionable era and continue to have a successful career that is more than 17 years old, and they show no sign of slowing down. I highly enjoyed their latest record Self Medication. While sticking to their Jamaican ska roots as always, I can appreciate their experimental efforts with tracks like Stars (a Beatles homage) which is more of a ska ballad, and I can’t help dance to Don’t Have To which has an old school feel to it like listening to an old Elvis Presley live record. I gotta love Don’t Forget The Streets and Leave Me, The Slackers' horns, sax and trombone always look and sound like the heart of the band, rather than background instruments. Vic Ruggiero’s sultry voice and keyboard skills are prominent in this record as well. It also seems trombonist Glen Pine has really come to his own as a songwriter and singer with songs such as Estranged and Eviction, both of which I highly enjoy. I definitely recommend Slackers fans check out this album, although I would not put it up there with their older classic albums such as Wasted Days or The Question, there are at least a couple of songs you are bound to enjoy and skank away to! (Review by Nat) Favorite Songs: Don’t Have To, Don’t Forget The Streets, Leave Me and Estranged Rating: 7.5/10

Goldfinger - Hello Destiny Release Date: April 22 2008 I'll go straight to the point: There's only 2 ska songs on this album and it's Get Up which is rather ska punk, and The Only One which as a slower pace but definately ska. Lucky us, they even bothered adding horns in those 2 songs. The Only One espacially offers a nice little "horns only" ending. But what about the rest of the album? Well I personally liked it. Goldfinger plays the kind of "punk" that I like, meaning not just bashing the instruments. Not Amused is the most punk you will get from this album. They seem to go "metal" a bit in Hanjobs For Jesus. I must admit, the songs are rather catchy. Don't be surprised if they get stuck in your head! The thing I didn't is the lyrics or I should say the topics. Animals rights, war, death, suicide, religion, injustice are themes you'll hear throughout the album. Knowing that John Feldmann has a strong activist side, I can't say that I am surprised. Now don't get me wrong, these are all noble causes but since 2003, the music industry has bombed us with War songs and it's getting slightly redundant. Finding all that on the same album seemed a bit much to me. So in general it's a good album and it's definately Goldfinger. It doesn't offer any new sound and as for going back to their roots, well that is a rather vague statement. Is 2 ska songs going back to their roots? When you think about it, most (if not all) Goldfinger albums have at least 1 ska song or some ska influence in one song (an off beat for exemple). Maybe because this influence was very faint in the past 2 albums, they consider Hello Destiny going back to their roots. Interesting note about this album: Recognize the lovely female voice in Handjobs For Jesus? It's Monique Powell from Save Ferris. Favorite Songs: One More Time, Get Up and The Only One Rating: 7/10

Releases from 2007

Streetlight Manifesto - Somewhere In The Between     Release Date: November 13th 2007 I must admit the first time I heard this album I thought it sounded just like Everything Went Numb. The fast pace, the lyrics are just too similar to their first opus. After a few times my opinion changed 180 degrees and now I love this album. It is true, the recipe is rather similar but hey it works! This is what I call a very intense album. There is so much happening in one song and sometimes you can't assimilate everything after just listening to it once. Streetlight probably one of the most talented horn section. It just flows right in with the other instrument but stand alone perfectly as well. Favorite Songs: Down, Down, Down to Mephisto's Cafe, Somewhere in The Between, The Blonde Leads The Blind Rating: 9/10

Voodoo Glow Skulls - Southern California Street Music Release Date: September 18th 2007 This band is my favorite ska band, their crazy unique ska-punk sound make them superior to all the other ska-punk bands that I have heard. Their previous album, Adiccion, Tradicion, Revolucion was not as strong as their past efforts such as Who Is, This Is? or Firme. Although there were some good tracks such as D.D Don’t Like Ska and Enter the Dragon, overall I wasn’t very impressed, the lack of catchy tunes was quite a let down. With that, I was uncertain of what to expect from their latest album, California Street Music. I was very anxious when first popping it into my CD player. I enjoyed this album, the song The Ballad Of Froggy McNasty was the first one I had heard, and I thought it was awesome! It has a catchy horn line and makes me want to dance, definitely my favorite song off the album! Morning Air Raid Sirens is socially conscious and speaks of Bush’s presidential legacy as well assinging in a militant voice about "family traditions and breeding tyranny, veiled under the guise of the American dream." You’ve got to love that horn line and punk edge in While My City Sleeps, a tribute to the band’s Inland Empire home of Riverside,California. Overall this was a good album, but I just can’t put it up there with their older stuff. Although they do have some really good tracks, I didn’t get that "crazy adrenaline wanting to go on a violent rampage" rushlike I did with the older albums. It seems the band cannot deliver tracks with the same level of energy as with their earlier works. (Review by Nat) Favorite Songs:The Ballad Of Froggy McNasty, Morning Air Raid Sirens and While My City Sleeps Rating:: 7/10

Mustard Plug - In Black And White      Release Date: September 11th 2007 I was rather disapointed with this album. Let me explain why: First it has rather a punk feeling to it. The drums and guitars are loud and sounds pretty much the same for every songs except a few. There's more "screaming" that I am used to for a Mustard Plug album, that is in the first songs, it calms dong a little later on. Because of all that, we can't hear much of the horn section although it is not being very original on this album as it follows the song and rarely plays solos. All is not bad. I still like some of the songs but I guess this album must be better live since it is still very energetic. Favorite Songs: Hit Me! Hit Me!, On And On, and Real Rat Bastard Rating: 6/10

The Pietasters - All Day      Release Date: August 21srt 2007 The Pietasters are back with a sixth studio album entitled All Day. I was not sure what to expect from this album, and I was very surprised at what I heard after listening to the entire thing the first time. There is an experimental edge to it, and I found it to be very unique from their previous albums. All Day lowers the punk rock influences, and cranks up the soul! This album is quite a change from what you might expect. The recording gives off that sound as if you’re listening to an old record. Motown inspired songs like Fozzy (my personal favorite on the album) get me on my feet, as well as Trifflin' with that awesome horn line, and songs like Ordinary have this total retro feel to it. The first song Change My Ways sounds as if it could have been played back in the 60s and gives you a great indication of what to expect from this album. The song So Long completely took me off guard, it is more of a rock and roll song, you can feel the British rock band influences. I could not get enough! This album is great! It mixes soul, ska, motown and rock just right to make it amazing. I definitely recommend fans pick up All Day and give it a shot, listen to it with an open mind and you will not be disappointed! (Review by Nat) Favorite Songs: Change My Ways, Triflin', Fozzy and Ordinary Rating: 8/10

Buck-O-Nine - Sustain      Release Date: August 7th 2007 Eight years after Libido, Buck-O-Nine comes back. The question is: Was it worth the wait? Personally, I believe so. The group offer something a little bit different from what we might be used to. You will definately recognize their very skankable style in the songs Cook Me Into The Bowl and Screamin' from the Suburbs. The album takes a sligthly darker side when Lie to Me comes up. Slower beats, more serious lyrics, they keep up this mood until about Slow Me Down. Although those are songs are less "live show materials" (because they are harder to dance to) I really enjoyed them. Less Than Comfortable espacially surprised me. Favorite Songs: Cook Me Into The Bowl, Less Than Comfortable and Sailing Away. Rating: 8.5/10

Reel Big Fish - Monkeys For Nothin' And The Chimps For Free      Release Date: July 10th 2007 To be totally honest, I had no intention to buy this album. I had listened to the samples on their website and thought it not was really impressive. Then I got it for Christmas and thought I should give it a chance. Turned out not so bad after all. This album is rather funny I find. It's starts with Party Down which is a satire of most popular music genres. I love Another F.U. Song, probably their best "fuck you" song. They seemed to have gone back to their orginal sound; more ska less rock. The second part of the album includes covers from their older songs (why the hell they would do that?) which I'm not particularly fond of. I rather the originals. The album contains a DVD. There isn't much on it, only a video on how they made the album. By watching it you will learn all you need to know on how to create your own record and what kind of bees make milk. Favorite Songs: Another F.U. Song, My Imaginary Friend, Slow Down, The New Version Of You and 'Til I Hit The Ground Rating: 7/10

The Aggrolites - Reggae Hit L.A.      Release Date: June 5th 2007 Another great album not only for those who likes reggae. With it's catchy beats and sunny moods, Reggae Hit L.A. just sweats summer. I was afraid that the songs would sound too similar to each other but this is not the case at all here. The album contains a few instrumental songs here and there but they are not too long nor redundant. Rhythm and Light changes beat quite often actually. Pretty relax, you might feel like the album is over too soon. Favorite Songs: Work It, Free Time and Lucky Streak. Rating: 8/10

Mad Caddies - Keep It Going      Release Date: May 1rst 2007 This is my number 1 ska album of 2007. Keep It Going is simply amazing. I mean I loved Just One More but this is even better. I wasn't sure about the "polka" beat (The Dirge, Today and Tired Bone) in the beginning but it certainly was a change, not necessarily for them but from usual ska in general. Who else does that except maybe International Ska Circus? I love all the songs of the album except the 2 last ones (not counting the bonus track). Accoustic ska is just not my thing. Songs 1 to 12 totally made up for those 2 anyway. I really love the lyrics also, a little bit more serious, we could even say darker than what we might know them for (Monkeys) but they were already going towards this direction with Just One More so it's technically not so new. None of the songs sound the same and it's really something I like about this album. It will definately get you hooked. They also mention Montreal in Souls For Sale which is a plus. Favorite Songs: Pretty much all of them but espacially Today, Lay Your Head Down, Coyote and Souls For Sale. Rating:9.5/10

The Toasters - One More Bullet      Release Date: April 24th 2007 I really didn't like how this album started. However, they redeemed themselves with the following song Night Train to Moscow. The voice effect in the beginning made me think of The Hippos (and I like them so that's good!). They stayed faithful to their 2 tone style they even went reggae a bit with Life In A Bubble and Run Rudy Run Redux. They will still make you dance with Bits and Pieces but this is mostly a "chill" album. Those who already love The Toasters and 2 tone ska will be just fine. The 3rd waver might be a bit disapointed. Favorite Songs: Night Train To Moscow, You're Gonna Pay and Bits and Pieces. Rating: 8/10

Big D and the Kids Table - Strictly Rude      Release Date: March 20th 2007 This album has a little bit of everything; serious songs, happy songs, a revolution song, a reggae song, songs you'll definately dance to... It starts strong with Steady Riot and Noise Complaint then calms down a little with Shinning On. The faster beats and punk influence of their earlier years definately got tuned down for this album but it still sounds like Big D. Snakebite finally got the best of me after a few times but I still skip Deadpan Face and Hell On Earth everytime they come up. Although it didn't blow my mind, I like where Big D is going with this album. When I saw them live and they played the songs from this album I thought they didn't sounded as good as on the album and that wasn't the speaker from the venue. You can see pictures and video from this show in the media section. Favorite Songs: Steady Riot, Noise Complaint, Fly Away and The One. Rating: 7.5/10