2 comments about Skalleluia Too!.

1. I've always loved the insyderz music but this album just isn't up to par with the rest. They try different styles of music and sometimes they pull it off well...but most of the time it just comes off as annoying. I can understand that playing the same style of music all the time gets boring but bands should know their limits. They should stick to ska-core.....oh yeah, their new album "soundtrack to a revolution" is out. I've heard a few songs and it sounds really good. Go and buy it!!!!!!



2. This album is really awesome. They cover praise songs and hymns in all different styles. Most of the songs are really great, but a few are somewhat annoying. My favorites are Shout to the Lord, Step by Step, and especially In the Secret. In the Secret is an awesome fast punk version. I gave the album a 4 because some of the songs just dont work in the styles they try. They try to do some hardcore stuff in there and they use a synthesizer a few times and its really not so good. I give them credit for trying different stuff, but I think they should stick to the catchy upbeat punk and ska stuff that they're so good at.

   A very good album overall I listen to it all the time. If you like this, make sure you get some Five Iron Frenzy and Supertones, which are even better in my opinion.

2 comments about Dreadmania.

1. 1972s "Dreadmania" was the first full-length LP from the British born, Alex Hughes, better known as Judge Dread. A cross between the reggae great, Prince Buster, and the naughty schoolboy comic genius, Benny Hill, Dread specialized in impish "blue" reggae songs. (Sadly, humor has pretty much been forgotten about in reggae these days.) However, Dread's music is more than simply a novelty act, as his songs feature fat beats that even the most serious reggae aficionado will appreciate. "Dreadmania" features some of Dread's best songs. There are the naughty nursery rhymes featured in "Big Six" and "Big Seven" inspired by Prince Buster's classic "Big Five." The hilarious "Oh! She is a Big Girl Now," Mary Ann," and "Dr. Kitch." Dread even had a fabulous singing voice as heard on his remarkable cover of Chuck Berry's "Ding A Ling." This reissue also has three bonus B-sides. For the fan of Judge Dread, "Dreadmania" is a must have that will not disappoint.



2. More greats from the late and sadly Missed judge.Real name Alex Hughes.Dread was owed the best part of a million pounds by his record company when it went bust.Alex died of a heart attack after collapsing on stage,when the ambulance he was put in broke down.Its fitting that the last people who saw him alive where the weeping skinheads who tryed in vain to push the ambulance started.He will forever be missed by all true skins.

5 comments about Good Luck.

1. Big D's Asian Man debut is a landmark in punk/ska history. This is a band that not only embodies the DIY Ska lifestyle but also the spirit of the music. Good times is the staple message of Ska and Big D know that better than any other new Ska band. All the songs are bubbly, upbeat and relentlessly energetic. The band took the genre to new heights with this album by making a sound that is stylistically no different than most other bands of the genre but still manages to sound completely new and fresh. If it wasn't for the unabided enthusiasm of Dave McWayne and the rest of the band, the music would have faltered and been unfairly lumped with other bandwagon Ska bands. You can tell how much the Kid's Table love what they do simply by their lifestyle: one of homelessness and nonstop touring.
   
   The album starts of strong with Myself which is a high-tempo skank punker that contains brilliantly catchy lyrics and wonderfully fluent horn lines. This theme would continue to other tracks such as Dirt Lip, GLD and Can't be Caught. The band also harnesses the awesome power of the super-heavy bridge in the songs Fatman and album highlight 51 Gardener.
   
   But the album is not perfect. In fact it is far from it. Later albums would prove to be much more focussed and improved. The band at the recording of this album had 5 horn players, which is a fairly ridiculous amount for a band that has so much punk influence. The abundance of horn players make the horns too big and somewhat tedious at times (while at other times it's phenomenal). The CD also drags on with very little true variety in the music. When there is variety, it's done haphazardly and comes off as pointless filler (especially the straight punk songs Apology and Learning to Listen). This flaw would be remedied severely in the follow-ups.
   
   This CD is a great introduction to a band that really hasn't gained a lot of precidence yet. The good-time atmosphere radiates on every track and makes a very enjoyable listen. Not for those fans who hate it when distortion enters the Ska picture or for fans of underground music period. If you love Ska and want a skankin good time, however, this CD is truly for you!
   
   4 and a Half Stars (just short of perfect)
   
   P.S. Trad Ska fans tend to love this band, too!



2. Said to be the poorest ska band around (poor as in no money, not talent) Big D make pretty damn good cds. Some of the songs are a little questionable, but the good songs definitly make up for it. Big D isn't going to change the world or re-invent ska or anything, but these guys are damn good at what they do. This cd is a must for ska fans. If you like this, you should also look at getting The Gypsy Hill e.p. or their new cd, which Amazon doesn't have as of now.



3. big d is awesome, buy this cd if you like ska. some of their earlier stuff is good, like the fork in hand split with drexel or their ep "energy". go to a show, they kick ass, its definitly worth it.



4. This is an awsome band. Obviously if you have stumbled upon this CD you know ska, because not manny people know them. The lyrics are fast and addicting, and the music is great! These guys definitly got the tallent, and I advise you NOT to pay attencion to the loser who gave them only 1 star.I recomend this to anyone! for other ska, you can check out the mighty mighty bosstones, catch 22, or the aquabats.



5. this amazing ska band from Boston will rock your socks off...you will be the luckiest person in the world if you can see them live cuz they are just amazing..this cd is just amazing...buy it...and then go to their show...and by shot by lammi...and the gypsy hill ep...cuz theyre so good! o tays...im done...

2 comments about Army of Juan.

1. Real cool stuff.Not quite your average sounding punk-ska band. The recording is a little ruff, but none the less... very cool! Too bad the record label is screwing them though....I hear that's a pattern with Moon Ska...for shame!



2. Well Army of Juan isn't that bad of a band..... they do lack something that I just can't put my finger on though. If moon keeps bands like this one coming in they will be an even bigger laughing stock then they already are.... Thats all

5 comments about What's Really Going On.

1. This album is about as "alternative" as one can get with punk music. I mean, the lack of reviews for this album is astonishing. Musically, it's very different for typical ska-punk music. The band plays superbly throughout and every single song has a different sound from the last. It's a bit of a grower, though. At first the random shift some songs take will through you off, and the lyrics range from trippy and surreal to really stupid, but it all fits together in one neat package. It's not very accessible, but those that get into it will find plenty to love.



2. not just another punk/ska album- its very progressive. some of the best guitar riffs and vocal arrangements ive ever heard. AJ are extremely talented musicians and epic song writers.they have taken the basic format for punk songs(intro-verse-chorus-breakdown) and beat the sh1t out of it. if u like punk or ska or goood music--obtain this album.



3. I just bought this cd about a week ago, and i've listened to it more than all my other cds combined (almost)! It's incredible. Go buy it. Now.



4. ajb is one of the greatest bands i've heard, strate foward punk ROCK, although the lyrics coulda been written by 3rd graders, the tune and music is phenomenal....pick it up for the music....NJPP REPREZENT...i heer bigwig's on kung fu records now, good for them, eh?--i'd call ajb a mix between rage against the machine and NOFX--and of course the vandals



5. Let's just say they are the best band out there. And if you disagree, F-U!!!!!!!!

5 comments about Total Madness: The Very Best of Madness.

1. This is a terrible retrospective which, without any other knowledge of the band, would lead many to conclude that Madness were little more than a crappy New-Wave band. Everyone knows "Our House." I'm glad "One Step Beyond" made the list. How come no "Night Boat to Cairo" or "House of Fun"? Pass this up, and just get the first album instead.



2. This Collection of Madness goes a long way towards proving that these "nutty boys" were a terrific singles band, but it is too skimpy to give it a beefier rating. From the opening bellow of "One Step Beyond" to the inspirational "Wings of a Dove," there really isn't a dud in the bunch. Even with these little nuggets of radio gems (sadly, hardly any of them US charters), it is easy to underestimate the influence of Madness. I recall one Saturday morning in college as the dorm TV was on, and a cereal commercial had a bunch of little kids doing that "One Step Beyond" dance/walk during the Saturday cartoons.
   
   Which meant that, despite meager American success for "Absolutely" and "One Step Beyond..." (enough so that Sire dropped them and the next two albums came out on Stiff as imports), there were a lot of eyes on these seven young Brits. Their mix of pop, R'n'B, goofy personalities and - of course - ska made them irresistible to those exposed.
   
   However, it was a peppy piece of nostalgia that finally broke Madness stateside. "Our House," with memories of growing up, caught the fancy of American ears and went top ten. It also helped that Geffen records, determined to prove they were an "artists record label," put considerable effort at breaking the Madness album, cobbling tracks from the first four albums (two of which had not even been released in the US), and even sneaking the cover "It Must Be Love" into the top 40.
   
   Pop thrills, nonetheless. BUT...not having the coming of age classic "Baggy Trousers" or "House Of Fun" is reason to skip this. If you want to dig deeper, "Ultimate Collection" has all the goodies.



3. My wife Lissbeth could not stop dancing to this CD. She absolutely love it. She said " I can't stop dancing!!!"



4. The best of Madness has a lot more than just this 12 songs. I don't have this CD but from the short song list I know there are better Madness CDs, for starter look for Madness Ultimate Collection, there are 19 songs in it, not complete yet, but better than this.
   Note for casual listener, In Business Box Set contain interview/commentaries between each song, very annoying.
   Five stars for the band, 3 for the lack in quantity.



5. If you are only familiar with Madness' few U.S. hits ("One Step Beyond" "Our House") this is probably the collection for you. The CD captures the basics of the sound this group put out and the influences they have had on many other bands, (Mighty Mighty Boaatones, No Doubt, Smashmouth) is evident even on this limited set. As you can read in the other reviews, this was a band that deserves a much more complete compilation. Hopefully, this CD will make you want more Madness. If not, this is a good addition for anyone who might want to broaden their musical taste to include one of the best ska bands ever.

5 comments about Kill Whitey!.

1. INDK takes the ideals of Leftover Crack but makes the vocals more melodic and easier to listen to. Ezra is awesome in this cd and the guitar riffs are sick. definately shoud be in your collection whether your a fan of the crackrock stedy 7 or not.



2. As a fan of Choking Victim and Leftover Crack, I knew I had to get my hands on their short lived sister band's album. INDK's Kill Whitey does not disappoint. Ezra is really able to hold his own and provides some hard hitting punk rock with great social and political lyrics. My only real complaint is that their is not enough ska. So if your a Choking Victim/Leftover Crack fan then you should check out INDK. Also if you like INDK then you will probably like Ezra's other band Morning Glory.



3. This cd (as people have said) is a bit different from the other Crack Rock Steady 7 bands, but it is still an awesome addition from a great NYC band. Its to bad that they had to break up, other than this I recommend Morning Glory, Choking Victim, or Leftover Crack. This cd is totally worth a buy.



4. This is one of the best political punk bands ever originating from somewhere amongst the chocking victim/LOC squaters. This CD is even beter than no gods no managers and for all you who are saying i n d k as the name its in decay get it INDK



5. Yet what seems like another NYC punk band that breaks up as its album is released. Despite that this album is pretty good. After having seen them live, I though that there would be more ska style songs on the album, but alas I was wrong. The punk songs are not as hardcore as INDK's "brother" band Leftover Crack or "mother" band Choking Victim, and are in fact more poppy, if that's the right word, melodic might be better. Songs of note are Tracks 2,3,5 and 14 the hidden track (sorry, but I forget the song titles). If you like Leftover Crack, INDK is a must buy and I actually think that they are or were a much better band.

5 comments about Studio One Rockers.

1. ...also get the Soul Jazz compilations of Studio One Roots 1 & 2, Lovers and Rockers and you will truely be happy.
   
   The Saints track "Sleeping Trees" on Roots 2 will drive you nuts! Can't stop listening to it! ..."Let's take another waaaaaaaaaalk"
   
   Bless
   
   Khader



2. This copilation of reggae from the original label in jamaica is one of the best selections you will ever hear on one disc. With or without spliff you will enjoy the trip. Just sit back, listen with a cool drink in you hand and envision a warm beach sunset view. Remember to turn up the bass and be transported. You won't be disappointed. If you can convince others, than better, it is for all to enjoy.



3. MMMM. After I had thought that I had acquired all the good studio one stuff, I took a chance on this and was duly rewarded.

   Some familiar stuff (to me, at least), such as Johnny Osbourne, the Skatalites, but it mixes in nicely.

   For those who aren't familiar, the best way I can think of to describe Johnny Osbourne's sound is Marvin Gaye singing reggae. That same silky smooth voice and enormous range, backed by a soulful organ and floating tempo. This track is a good example of his sound and a true classic.

   The Skatellites use a lot of horns and are largely instrumental. But classic. More of a choogling, ska-type beat (ie faster) than Osbourne. The Phoenix City song on this album has got to be my favorite Skatalites song - and that's really saying something, because they have made a lot of classic tracks.

   Similar for Horace Andy - probably my new favorite Horace Andy song. This track does not have much of his trademark screeching and instead has him singing much more like an early Jimmy Cliff style (circa the harder they come).

   Dawn Penn's track is smooth, sultry and a godsend. I played this at a bar and most of the patrons asked who it was. Almost recalls something by the Cowboy Junkies or Mazzy Star in terms of the vocal style. Just beautiful.

   Other high points are the Freddie MacGregor & Lennie Hibbert tracks. All in all, the only track I'm not completely sold on is the crabwalking track by Prince Jazzbo, simply because its just rapping over the Horace Andy track and the cuts aren't all that crisp. But a lot of other people would probably like it.




4. So, I'm in the record store a while back picking through the same ol' stuff. I was getting frustrated because I felt like all I ever do is look at the same thing over and over without new results. Since I practically live for music, you can imagine how frustrating it is to come to a dead end with music experiences. Especially knowing there is more out there than you've been exposed to so far.

   On my honeymoon to the islands I became fairly familiar with reggae. Mind you, I'm not an expert by any means. Every cab driver there listened to reggae. I couldn't believe how nice the cabs were and how much money they put into their stereos. Anyway, they all listened to reggae. It was my first real exposure to the music, but it really gave me something to associate it with. Since that time I have been a huge fan.

   This collection of artists is a great one. The first time I ever heard it, it took me back to the islands immediately. It was everything I was looking for. I needed it, too. I had hit a dead end with the music I was listening to. I had been begging for a new genre to experience. Reggae seemed perfect.

   Needless to say, as I was in the store, a friend of mine recommended this album and proceeded to give me some of the history behind it. As I listened, I briefly perused the back cover to see how many songs and artists were on the compilation. Enough to keep me busy for a while. I have since searched for many of the artists on this album with great results. I really owe a lot to this album. I really owe a lot to reggae. It showed me a new side to music when I really needed it.

   The album starts off with "Real Rock" by Soul Dimension. This song has one of the thickest reggae sounds I've heard. Immediately you know that this album is going to take a lot of stress away. Next is the wonderful song by Marcia Griffiths titled "Feeling Like Jumping." There is also an appearance by the great Horace Andy. I have been familiar with some of his dub work. "Truth and Rights" by Johnny Osborne is one of my favorites on the album. Probably my favorite. For a moment you might think it's The Fugees.

   If you are into reggae or are looking for something that might get you into it, I would recommed this compilation. It has some of the greatest songs. Put this on after school or work on Friday afternoon and enjoy life. You could put it on anytime and get the same feeling. Friday afternoon just happens to be my favorite time of the week.




5. This is a collection of storming classic's cut for Clement " Coxsone " Dodd's legendary Studio One record label ( the most important label in Jamaica's history ) . The Ska , Rocksteady , organ driven instrumentals , Roots Reggae , and DJ-ing that are represented on this disc will have you skanking around your living room floor , such is the dancability of all the tracks .
   Any record that contains seminal tracks like Marcia Griffiths - " Feel Like Jumping " , Johnny Osbourne's - " Truth And Rights " , Michigan and Smiley's - " Eye Of Danger " , Dawn Penn's classic - " No , No , No " , and Cedric Brooks majestic - " Ethiopia " , has to be a must buy cd . It also comes with a nice booklet that has an interview with the great man himself , Mr C.S. Dodd .
   I'd also recommend the Dynamite series of reggae compilations released on the Soul Jazz label , as they are also essential .

2 comments about The Best of Musical Youth (21st Anniversary Edition).

1. Ah, the youth of today. Or shall we say of the 80's when Musical Youth first hit the scene. Five Jamaican born lads fresh from Birmingham, England released what would be known as their biggest hit with 'Pass the Dutchie' in early 1982. Highly regarded as one hit wonders, this disc proves doubters wrong. Musical Youth were talented musicians who never fully got the credit and recognition they so rightly deserved. Part of that was due to their record company, poor management and well, youth. This disc contains such uptempo hits such as 'Pass the Dutchie', 'Youth of Today' and 'Heartbreaker'. Also included is a duet with Donna Summer and a remix to 'Pass the Dutchie'. This is a must have for die hard fans and reggae fans worldwide.



2. Yes, I'm still a fan of Musical Youth. People who own this album will agree that this music can only give you good times. It's cheerful and happy music by five boys who were very talented musicians. This album proves that their career was way too short. You will of course find the worldwide smash hit "Pass The Dutchie" on this cd, as well as a remix from 1994 that's completely overflowing. But you'll also find other great tracks like "The Youth Of Today", "16" and the duet with Donna Summer "Unconditional Love". If you like reggae and don't mind it a bit poppy, you'll definitely like this!

5 comments about Destination Unknown.

1. i bet you 10$ that they stole destination unkown from the lyrics of ruby soho by rancid kicks there gay poopy areses there stupid punk wannabes like blink182 listen to us bombs or rancid or operation ivy or the vandals or the dropkick murphys or the clash or sublime or the casaulties



2. I loved this Cd soooo much. I bought it, and the next week, i took it to my friends house, and played it, a while later, i took it out of her stereo, and placed it upsidedown on her desk. BIG mistake!!! we then proceeded to light candles a such, when she knew she wasn't allowed to, then we had to smother the flmae, and the smoke went everywhere. then she sprayed perfume around the room, and it landed on my wonderful Destination unknown CD! I WAS SO MAD! She runined it, and I now have to go buy another one! But yes..as I was saying, awesome CD. Probably my favourite out of all of their Cd's, and i think they'll keep getting better!



3. Mest is definatley one of my favourite bands and all of thier albums are great. They are at the top of the list as far as the pop punk genre goes. The music is fast paced and extremely catchy. If you like Yellowcard, The Starting Line, Green Day, Good Charlotte, Blink 182 and New Found Glory then I recommend Mest.
   
   Destination Unknown is a truly amazing cd and deserves to be played loud and often. It is full of up beat catchy songs. The tunes all have the capability of getting stuck in your head. Sure, a lot of the songs are about girls and brokendown relationships, but what do you expect listening to a group of young guys singing about what's going on in their lives.
   
   Some of my favourite songs on the album are:
   Opinions
   Cadillac
   It's Over
   Reason
   Mother's Prayer
   
   If you liked Mest's first album then you will definately enjoy this one also. All 14 songs are great, no filler included. I highly recommend Destination Unknown and if you like this one you will be sure to enjoy their other two albums also!



4. Mest is an awesome band. I think they live up to what real punk is. Go buy their albums its way worth the money!



5. Thrice is amazing and If you liked showoff check out chris from showoffs new band Farewell My Enemy at www.farewellmyenemy.com they are really f'n awesome.
   Tom