Amazon.com

Punk rock has long been known for its short, loud, and snotty anthems, but this is taking things to extremes. None of the songs found here reaches the one-minute mark. Some are among punk's most esteemed anthems, while others are casual additions to the canon. In either case, even if you don't like one tune, well, there's another one coming in just a few seconds. This isn't the best introduction to these bands. The Descendents, for example, are punk-pop titans who and not at their best when aping the hardcore set. However, where else can you find Less Than Jake, Nerf Herder, Blink 182, Green Day, the Mr. T. Experience, Gwar, the Circle Jerks,D.O.A., Agnostic Front, and the Muffs all on one CD? There's no shortage of top-shelf names here, and more than a few surprises will keep you hopping. --Rob O'Connor ... Read more

Reviews (71)

a few bad songs, more then 90 good ones
It's the newest project from one of punk rock's most innovative minds today, Fat Mike... 101 bands on one album playing 30 seconds-and-under songs. The album taps the scenes of over ten countries, and leave it to Fat Mike to collect the most varied lineup of punk, old-school, hardcore, emo, ska, and radio bands of any compilation. So unplug your phone, remove all distractions, and lock yourself in your room before listening or else you might miss half of the bands. Don't plan on doing anything afterwards either, because your attention span will be completely shot.

There are a lot of cool tracks on the comp, mostly from bands that have mastered the art of the short song, such as the Descendents. The lineup features everything from legends like Bad Religion, Black Flag, and the Subhumans to today's popular punk bands like NOFX, Pennywise, and the Bouncing Souls. But with such a screwy setup, you're bound to get plenty of bands that don't really take the project seriously, and there are some disappointments. Out of 101 bands, though, what did you expect? There's enough good stuff that you can skip over the crap and still get your fix. Plus, the full-color booklet features a little something from each band, including as pictures, contact information, lyrics, or random band jokes. It's hard to take this CD seriously, but it's a good opportunity to hear a wide mix of punk bands or just sit around with some friends and see who can name the most bands (or count which bands can swear the most in under 30 seconds).

The funniest CD on the face of the earth
I was surfing around the net one day and somehow I came across Short Music For Short People. 101 bands doing 30 second songs?... This had to be one of the best ideas for a CD that I'd heard in a long time. Plus it was out on Fat Wreck Chords so I knew it couldn't be horendously bad. So, without really thinking about what I was doing, I bought it. I was not dissapointed by my purchase. For a CD that costs [$$$], this CD is a work of freaking art. But it's also much more than that. It's a compilation of some of the best ska, hardcore, and pop punk bands out there. Some on Honest Don's, some on Lookout!, some on Epitaph, some sell outs, and some on the almighty Fat Wreck Chords. Its got hilarious stuff by Fizzy Bangers, Blink 182, Nerf Herder, The Mr. T Experience, Gwar, Descendents, The Vandals, NOFX, Wizo, Bouncing Souls, H2O, and a bunch of other bands. Its got those amazing guys of The Living End doing an amazing song. Its got The Queers doing a song about hate. Its got Less Than Jake thanking a bunch of people. Its got those Chicago boys 88 Fingers Louie. Its got those funny guys from Honest Don's who call themselves Chixdiggit! Its got Good Riddance. Its got The Bouncing Souls. Its got Lagwagon. Its got Green Day. Its got the Offspring. And lets not forget Bad Religion. So basically its got more bands then I can remember. And its only 50 minutes. Cramming 101 bands into 50 minutes? Genius.

Essential Punk Comp.
It might not be the best punk compilation (check out the Peace/War double album or the Dischord box-set or the Punk-O-rama series for some alternatives) but its definitely an essentaial one. And not just for minutemen fans either, anyone who likes fast, loud punk should take a look at this.
Obviously, its good for anyone with a short attention span, but some of the songs are good enough for you to put them on 'repeat' and listen to them 14 times. It's got huge variety (blink and Black Flag, GWAR and The Descendents, AFI and Wizo....) so theres gotta be something you'll like. Even if you hate some of it ( I still don't know what to think about the Real McKenzies's track) it'll be over in 24 seconds.
Obviously the huge variety is an incentive to check this out, but theres also a whole lot more quality than you'd expect of an album with 101 songs (99 tracks, ... punk fans......). How many albums do you own that can claim to have 74 great tracks?

best compilation of all time
Jesus christ, this is amazing(except for that ballsuckingly bad spazz song). Fat Mike is a genius for thinking this up!
However, it is Missing a few key contributions (in order of importance):

dropkick murphys
millencolin
propagandhi
mighty mighty bosstones
face to face
mxpx
distillers
hot water music

great idea and great music
This cd has tons of essential bands (the famous ones) and tons that have music just as good. If not for the music, then buy this CD because it makes for excellent drinking games. Just take a swig every time a new song comes on and you'll be smashed within the hour. ... Read more

Reviews (15)

Greatest Hits
I gave this album only 4 out of 5 because the lack of songs. I think every song on this disc is awesome, but just 10 songs? I mean theres so many other great songs! my personal favorites are Santeria and Smoke Two Joints. This Cd is probably great for people who just like Sublime for What I Got and Wrong Way because it mostly hase the singles. this probably isnt a album for you if you're into the old stuff from robbin' the hood and 40 oz. to freedom. overall i like this cd but i can only wish it had more songs.

Sublime is...... Sublime!
I have all the sublime cd's and it's great to see the best songs from all of them on one cd. Sublime's greatest hits is one of my most favorite cds, I just wish it had more sublime songs on it, 10 just isn't enough. This cd just can't be summarized in words. The only thing that I can say about this cd is that its so original and fresh, sublime will never be forgotten for their contributions to american music.

Good band, mediocre hits album
Sublime was easily one of the finest alternative rock acts of the nineties. It's only proper that the band got a Best Of CD. Read on for my review of this, the band's first (to my knowledge) hits package.

PROS:
-If you're the casual Sublime fan, and you don't want to hunt down all of the band's studio albums, this is a fairly good alternative. Wrong Way, Doin' Time, Date Rape, Smoke Two Joints, and all the other hits are here for your listening pleasure.

CONS:
-The major flaw of this compilation is that it just isn't enough. There are just ten tracks, and they could easily have fit ANOTHER ten in the time limit of the CD.
-Needless to say, the self-titled album is overemphasized.
-It's out of print and near impossible to find.

OVERALL:
This is a good hits package. I actually recommend you purchase all of the band's albums, though. But if you're on a budget and you don't want to hunt down all of them, this is the way to go. JUST MAKE SURE YOU BUY THE UNCUT VERSION.

simply great!
Sublime's music is just amazing, and you can't get all of it just within this album. It's the first Sublime CD I had, and the songs are all oustanding, but familiar (all played on the radio extensively.) I'd definitely recommend this CD but their other albums (Robbin' the Hood, 40 oz. to Freedom, and self-titled) would be a much better buy.

The best band ever!
If you want to listen to an awesome band with soul, sublime is it!

Sublime - The best band in the world!!!!! ... Read more

Reviews (6)

A-WORK-OF-ART
I'm guessing the guys who wrote these real bad reviews [on here] are bent up bitter groupies, because this album - let me tell YOU..Is as good as it gets [in terms of ska punk]. It goes up to 11 and is only one behind Rancid's 'And Out Come The Wolves'....

My personal fave track would be 'wrong em boyo', or even 'calling in sick'...in fact every track is solid, tight and accurately produced for a band of this ilk.

The whole vibe is still happy-go-lucky and satirical, yet it's so punchy...miles more ummphh than the any millenium mtv punk band today...

Look, if don't get this album and you will never know why this genre was carved in the first place....

Water In My Head saves it
Hey, I'm biased... Water In My Head is my favorite ska song of all time. Otherwise I'd give this CD 1 or 2 stars. I can (and have) put that song on repeat, on headphones, for 2 hours straight and come out loving it just as much. It takes a few listens to hear all the different melodies and how well they work together. I especially like the bass line. Anyway, the rest of the songs are OK, not really horrible, but not particularly worth listening to. If you want several good songs, Libido blows this CD away.

If you didn't hate Ska already...you will now.
This album is one big train wreck. I really can't write a long review about it because there isn't much to say. The songs are watered down ska at its worst. It feels like they are just trying to throw something together to get money, not to make good songs. I didn't mind ska before, but this band is why ska gets such a bad rap. Stay away from this album. Save your money and buy something else....anything else...you will get more mileage out of a Yanni album.

a happy CD
Although some of the songs, like "Full Metal Bree," and "Barfly" weren't that great, and the OPIV cover just sucked, I really enjoyed it...it's one of my favorites.

goood
This isnt the best cd but it is good and i wanna get the ratings u ... Read more

Reviews (2)

| INDK |
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

A decent CD from a non-existent band
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. ... Read more

Amazon.com

After six studio albums under their skinny leather belts, the Mighty Mighty Bosstones have found themselves back at an indie label. The perplexing part of this equation is these once and future rude boys from Boston have never sounded better or more ready for prime time; their metal-ska punk has been honed to a fine, serrated edge, with much of the furious posturing of years past gone. Always a tight and flashy band, this time out the Bosstones have spent considerable time crafting a set of dynamic lyrics that are cinematic in scope, with a barely hidden moral center that shines brightly. Most of the tunes are small narrative slices of life that might have been "ripped from the headlines," like the gritty, ska-infused "Mr. Moran," based on the life of Mafia turncoat Salvatore "Sammy the Bull" Bravano, who testified against mob boss John Gotti. The dark subject matter is skillfully integrated in the almost childlike sing-song delivery, with the occasional explosive expletive as reality check and a nod to subtle irony. Others tunes are cautionary tales, like the hard-charging "You Can't Win," which warns that there are different rules for normal folks and rich types: "They're wide awake while you're still in bed / They count the money while you count the sheep." They return again to this theme of the eternal war of "us versus them" on the acerbic "Punch Line," finally settling all questions of personal inequity on the poetic and uplifting "Everybody's Better." This standout song could have ambled off a Jamaican beach, with its casual rhythms and breezy horn section, but once again behind the deceptively simple melody lies profundity: "To be king, you don't need a castle… A true king rules without a crown." On this album, the Mighty Mighty Bosstones truly earn their second modifier and show themselves more than able rule all that they survey. --Jaan Uhelszki ... Read more

Reviews (36)

a jacknife upwards for MMB
yes indeed the bosstones are back and they return w/great success after their previous effort, "pay attention"

"a jacknife to a swan" is a return to the harder-edged bosstones sound of old...miss their old ska-core sound from earlier albums? you find it in songs like "sh!t outta luck", "sugar free", "i want my city back" and "go big"...dicky barrett brings a triumphant return to his growling delivery, pumping up the energy in each song

still, the bosstones can play soft, and they do it well, with the reggae-influenced "everybodys better" and "chasing the sun away" and barrett sounds just as good here, along with the great horn section..."go big" features guest trumpeter rolf langsjoen...roman fleysher and tim burton lead the horn section w/their soulful sax playing, and on this album chris rhodes replaces bosstone staple dennis brockenborough on trombone

the bosstones are in my opinion the best ska/punk, ska-core band out there and can play with so much energy...while this is a great album, their old stuff is truly their best, but all MMB fans need this album, and if youre new to the bosstones its a nice intro of just what they can do

Best of the Bosstones
This new album is the best Mighty Mighty Bosstones album to date. It combines the energy and punky wrecklessness of 'Devil's Night Out' with the elegance, the catchy rhythm, and the punchy horn section of 'Let's Face it.' Unfortunately, the Bosstones produced this album on a small record label- the great songs from this album probobly won't be heard on the radio, or MTV... Nonetheless, I highly recommend this album- it is appropriate for most ages, but more importantly it is simply GOOD music, unlike most of the junk that people are listening to nowadays. If you're not familiar with The Mighty Mighty Bosstones, you should definately buy this album first, it eliminates all the bad aspects of Let's Face It and Pay Attention (as the review below said) but it isn't as sloppy or hardcore-punk-ish as their earlier albums. (I personally love their earlier albums, but some would probably find them a little bit too... uh... loud?)

Great CD from MMB
This is a great CD. The Bosstones go back to a mix of Ska and Skacore leaning more towards upbeat Ska instead of mostly distorted hardcore guitar stuff. I have been a Bosstones fan since I heard Don't know how to party in 94' and have all of their CDs now and I really think that this is the best of them all. If you like the bosstones but didn't like Pay Attention, try them out again, if your not a Bosstones fan check them out I think most Ska and punk/hardcore fans will enjoy it.

Can't stop whistling it!
I can't take this cd out of my stereo! Unlike a lot of albums, with one or two good songs, this is one of the few cds that you can play all the through...and then play it over again.

Energetic and danceable, yet still spotlights their musical talents and credibility. You will find its also a bit of a theme album, for all you "Sopranos" fans out there...

I especially like "Mr Moran" and "Sh*t Out of Luck."

This is one cd you won't regret buying.

BORING...ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZz
C'mon people, how could you all rate this cd so high?? This is a pile of [junk]. I have been a huge fan of the band since the beginning. I saw trouble coming w/the disappointing 'pay attention'. That cd had 2 of the best songs the band has ever written, namely 'Let Me Be' and 'Riot down on broad street'. The rest of that cd was boring. This cd promised a 'return' to their roots. What a complete lie!!! If it was supposed to be a return to their roots then where are the heavy/thrashy skacore parts?????? There are none. 'Mr. Moran' is the only good song on the cd. I have given up on this once great band. They are more interested in appealing to the masses and forgot how to write good/memorable songs. This cd is a snooze fest. ... Read more

Reviews (100)

A good CD with a few exceptions but it's worth your money
"Hang-Ups" is a very good CD. They are are very diverse on this album starting out with "Superman" which sounds just like the Mighty Mighty Bossontes, then "My Head" which is harder with no horns, "If Only" is the best is one of the best songs on the CD and is a little on the softer side. Then Goldfinger picks up their ska influence on "This Lonely Place" and "20-Cent Goodbye." "Question" sounds just like Less Than Jake and is more of a ska-punk song. Then the CD kinda goes downhill for a while with dumb songs like "Carlita," "Too Late," and "I Need to Know," but "Authority" helps pull it out of that rut. On "S.M.P." Goldfinger sounds exactly like the Beastie Boys with a song that lasts like 30 seconds (I don't really like the Beastie Boys but this song is cool). "The Last Time" is also one of the best songs on the CD picking up the ska sounds. "Chris Cayton" is Goldfinger's best song ever and it also kinda sounds like Less Than Jake. There is also a hidden track called "It Isn't Just Me" and that sort of sounds like the softer Foo Fighters songs. So, this CD is very good with only 3 exceptions but the better songs more than make up for it so I highly recommend "Hang-Ups."

Best Goldfinger CD Ever (So far . . .)
Hang Ups represents the Ska side of Goldfinger. Stomping Ground (Their Third Album) represents their more punk rock stuff without horns. Their first CD (Self-Titled) is sort of a mix of both. I'm getting off subject . . . here's my review.

SUPERMAN 5/5: This is the song that got me in to Goldfinger. It's featured in the first Tony Hawk Pro Skater video game, that's where I first heard it. This is the best ska song ever. I mean it. Everything is great and it's super catchy. It is second only to Mable, Goldfinger's best song. MY HEAD 4/5: Another great song, but it doesn't have any horns, which isn't a problem. It's a really cool song. IF ONLY 5/5: This song rules. It's got awsome lyrics and it's really catchy. THIS LONELY PLACE 4.5/5: This is a really good song. The first Chorus is soft, but by the end the Chorus is gets loud and it's really cool. 20¢ GOODBYE 4.5/5: Another cool Ska song. The only problem is that it's barely 2 minutes long. If only it were a bit longer . . . QUESTION 4/5: This is a rock song, more like the ones on Stomping Ground, it's really cool. At the end he starts sounding like guy from the Mighty Mighty Bosstones. It's cool. DISORDER 4/5: Another non-ska song. It's got a catchy tune to it. CARLITA 5/5: This is an awsome ska song. I can't ever get the beginning (Well after today, I'll never see you, and you'll be left with your life) out of my head. TOO LATE 3.5/5: This is probably my least favorite songs on the CD. It doesn't seem as good a other songs on Hang Ups. I KNEED TO KNOW 4/5: The song is okay. It's just not that catchy. AUTHORITY 5/5: This isn't one of their ska songs. It's really cool. The chorus is super-catchy. S.M.P 4/5: This is a short screaming punk song. It's pretty funny. S.M.P. stands for "Skiers Must Perish" Don't ask. THE LAST TIME 5/5: This is another one of my favorites. It's a cool song that seems part ska, part punk. CHRIS CAYTON 5/5: This is a really catchy ska song. They swear a bit to much in it though. SECRET TRACKS: IT ISN'T JUST ME 5/5: This song is slow, but I really like it. CHICKEN MCNUGGETS 5/5: This song is so funny. The lyrics are "Chicken McNuggets are bad for you!, bad for you! Chicken McNuggets are bad for you!, bad for you! But they taste good!" It's hilarious.

Wooo! Yeah, that's all for my Hang Ups review. Yeah, Umm... Goldfinger Rules!

Just Awesome!
This is the album that made Goldfinger my all-time favorite band. This album has great lyrics, good music, and the best part is you can tell they are passionate about their music, not about the green in their pockets. If you like any Punk/Ska music, this album is for you. Even if you just got this album for Superman, I would have to say that Superman alone is worth the money, because next to maybe All My Best Friends Are Metal Heads by Less Than Jake, this is THE best Ska song ever. That's right, ever. If you still aren't looking for your Master Card, then here is the playlist
[1] Superman (7/5)- Kicks the CD off with a bang, awesome song. If you like Punk/Ska music, you cannot die until you hear this song. End of story.
[2] My Head- (4/5)- Another great song on the album. A little harder than Superman, but still great.
[3] If Only- (5/5)- Great Punk Ballad. Starts out slow and woeful, but kicks it up a notch in the middle, classic Goldfinger-style.
[4] This Lonely Place (4/5)- The intro is a little weird, but still good. Nice Ska ballad, easy listener.
[5] 20¢ Goodbye (3.5/5)- Decent Ska song, but there is just something about it that I just can't get into it. Great Brass (horns) section though.
[6] Question (5/5)- One of my personal favorites on the album, kind of reminds you of the later Stomping Ground or Open Your Eyes. Is a little profane though.
[7] Disorder (4/5)- Cool little guitar solo in the beginning, very good poppy kind of song.
[8] Calita (4/5)- This, my friends is what people define Ska. Pure ska. Great brass section, and killer Tenor Sax at the end.
[9] Too Late (5/5)- Another favorite on the album, but unlike tradition tells us, this song starts out hardcore and ends Ska. Still extremely great lyrics, good song.
[10] I Need To Know I Love the guitar/bass solo in the beginning! Jon Feldmann shows great vocalism in the throughout the song.
[11] Authority [4/5]- An above mediocre song that always seems to get stuck in my head.
[12] S.M.P (Skiers Must Parish) [4/5]- Quick song about snowboarders and their dislike of skiers. Actually kind of funny.
[13] The Last Time [3/5]- Probably the worst song on the album, but is still not that bad. Again another song that constantly gets stuck in my head.
[14] Chris Cayton [5/5]- Second only to Superman on the album, I have no clue why they didn't try to get some airplay on this song as it is chart topping quality.
[14 A] It Isn't Just Me [4/5]-Melody that shows John's softer side, pretty good song.
[14 B] Chicken McNuggets [4/5]- Quick blast of pure jamming. Not exactly lyrically great, but is still pretty funny. There are conversations with the band, and also at the very end, a concert announcement.

No Good. Get their others first.
The worst goldfinger album in my opinion. Maybe it's because i just don't like ska so much, but that doesn't change the fact that i dont even like the more punk songs on here. Superman is the only song here i would rate in goldfinger's 20 best songs. Any other goldfinger album is good, just steer away from this until you become a fan of the other ones first.

what can i day
Goldfinger is just a feel good band, they sound a lot like less than jake and reel big fish, but they are soo good, superman is a great song on the cd. go now and buy this gem ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Great stuff, I didn't expect to like it
Lemme get one thing straight first: I hate ska. I can't stand it. I like punk, but ska just doesn't sit well with me. Never the less, I loved this CD. It's clever and very well done. Most all the songs are good, from Shoot the Moon to Closet Monster (my favorite song on the album) to the classic Fat Randy.

Not a bad buy to say the least....but I expected more.
This CD is good, but some tracks I didn't like, but that's just me. The good ones are definitely Shoot the Moon, Charlie Brown, Drunk Tank, Empty Bottles, El Coo Cooi, Malas Palabras ("Bad Words" for all you un-spanish speakin folk), Land of Misfit Toys, and of course Fat Randy. The other 8 are mostly punk, with an occasional horn line thrown in, if you're lucky. So I guess you could say that this CD has a little sumthin for everyone. The best part is that it's full of many crazy skankin tunes. If you like ska and punk, I don't see how you could go wrong with this one.

ONE OF GGGGGGGARTH'S HIDDEN TREASURES!
I bought this CD when I was about 15 or 16 and it still plays in my stereo when I'm into a little underground mix of chicanos playing by there own set of rules. What I mean is that this record contains crisp hardcore with strong connecting ska riffs and choruses. This is probably all thanks to producer GGGGGGGarth who has worked with the best of the best and is probably one of the most influential unsung heroes in the music business back in the day of the 90's! Anyways the album never let's down and just like the cover of the CD it sounds like a hot rod on some hopped up fuel. If your into a little different mix than this is something worth checking out. The band contains a guitarist , a bass player, a drummer, and a singer but also with a horn section as well so expect the unexpected when you listen to the VOODOO GLOW SKULLS!

these guys rock!!!
this was my introduction to VGS, and what can i say i was completely blown away and imagine to my surprise being a cali girl these guys are from my hometown! they are even more awesome in person!!! my brother loves them too and takes his friends to all the local shows. i love so many songs on here but especially: El Coo Cooi, fat randy, malas palabras, land of misfit toys, closet monster. these guys are awesome!!!

whoah
I am soo sick of these new bands , with no horns i might add, that call them self ska since they have a few upstroke guitar riffs in three of their songs, my impression of new ska is :play the same three upstrokes over and over throughout verses, go to powerchords for the chorus, repeat until song is over, it honestly makes me sick, ska is hanging by a thread people, this band is the only thing keeping it attatched, Voodoo Glow Skulls, keep it up. Voodoo Glow Skulls are definetely one of the only real ska bands around today, nex to potshot and a great ol' ska band - the Specials. ... Read more

Reviews (38)

Fishbone Soldier
Fishbone is back with their most accessible album since "Truth and Soul." This band is one of the most influential groups to not hit it big, and this album might be their best chance to date. Angelo sounds absolutely amazing on this album. He's quite possibly the greatest frontman ever live, and now they've captured his voice at its best. "Shakey Ground" is funky as can be, w/ the help of members of the Red Hot Chili Peppers... Actually, all of these cuts are excellent with a variety of guest stars and a fishbone signature mix of ska, reggae, punk, and funk, and for the first time, pop. If you're a first timer, this might be the best album to start with, as it is the easiest to listen too. However, it's not a masterpeice like "Reality of My Surroundings" and the boys don't quite cut loose, but none the less, it's got my head noddin'.

Not the best Fishbone but that's still not too bad...
I just listened to "Psychotic Friends Nuttwerk", the first new release from Fishbone in two months shy of FOUR YEARS! While I'm glad to see Angelo Moore, "Dirty" Walter Kibby, and Norwood Fisher back, this new album just doesn't have the same kind of feel to it as previous efforts (read: masterpieces) of theirs like "The Reality of My Surroundings" or "Give a Monkey a Brain..." I believe it is, in part, because of the departure from the band of the greatest rock drummer alive, Philip "Fish" Fisher. In fact, my actual review for the album after one listening is 3 stars; I'm giving it the fourth star because I know it'll grow on me as their last new release, 1996's "Chim-Chim's Badass Revenge", did.

Don't get me wrong. "PFN" has great moments and is easily their most radio-friendly album; fellow Fishbone Soldiers note that this DOES NOT mean that they SOLD OUT! It's just that this album goes in a different direction from where they appeared to be going after "Chim-Chim". The definite highlights of the album are the opening track, "Shakey Ground" (featuring RHCP's Flea on bass and Donny Osmond(?) on back-up vocals) and the cover of Sly and the Family Stone's "Everybody is a Star" with Gwen Stefani, George "The God of Funk" Clinton, and Rick James sharing vocals with Angelo. Unfortunately, as good as these tracks are, they don't quite compare to songs like "Lemon Meringue" (from "Give a Monkey...") or "Everyday Sunshine" (from "The Reality of...").

I suggest to anyone yet to be initiated in the ways of the most underrated and BEST band on the planet to wait on "PFN" and start at the beginning; get their debut CD and work your way chronologically down. You won't be disappointed. And for those of you who are already fans, give this one time if you don't dig it right away. I'm listening to it a second time as I write and I like it more already. In fact, that 4th star has just officially kicked in.

Didn't like it at first, than adjusted and love the cd!
The first initial time I listened to the CD, I really didn't like it, because it lacked the 'fishbone' sound I really liked on the first few cds; however, the more I listened to it and gave it a chance, sometimes the first time listening doesn't do any justice, which seems to be the case with a lot of the more negative reviews. Now I listen to it as much as the original fishbone cd, every day. Good disc!!

Old fishbone blues
The old fishbone will never be back, but the new fishbone is pretty good. They will always miss Chris dowd and Kendall Jones. The new members are pretty good. Spacey T seems to be more in the vein of John Bingham than kendall jones. there are plenty of highlights on this album, especially Karma Tsunami. Angelo is in top form here, but the days of Reality of my Surroundings and Give a Monkey a brain seem to be gone. It is not their best album, but it is not their worse either. The reggae influence seems to be stronger than on other albums. Even an O.K. Fishbone is way better than most popular music. it would be wonderful if any of the departed members would come back to Fishbone. But no mattter their future they deserve to have a platinum album sometime in their career. Like Madness, Fishbone is one of the most underrated bands ever. Though nowhere near as good as their last two Columbia albums, it is still a good and innovative album, but ait could use a strong melodic influence ala Everyday Sunshine, Movement in the Light or Unyielding Conditioning. But some cuts come close to evincing the deep soulful funkiness of Lemon meringue. Still a very worthwhile addition to your Fishbone collection and an approachable starting place for the novice.

uhm
This is the dullest Fishbone album ever due to the project being railroaded by Disney. It's a very VH1 album. The crazy songs were kept off of the record, so the only freak out part on the disc is at the end of "Everybody is a Star". However, these 4 songs that were cut just came out as an EP. My advice? Get the CD off Napster and combine it on a CD-R with the leftovers EP, and then you will have a great album. Now, if you want a smoking new FB album pick up the "Temple Bar" EP, that one SMOKES. ... Read more

Album Description

24 of the hit Floridian ska-punk outfit's greatest early recordings, including 'Jonny Quest Thinks We're Sellouts', 'One Last Cigarette' and covers of '867-5309 (Jenny)' & 'You'reThe One That I Want'. 1999 release. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

The Pez Kings Do It Again
Being that LTJ is my favorite band of all time, I couldn't go wrong with this CD. It has all the greats such as Johnny Quest Thinks Were Sellout, Rock n Roll Pizzera, Whipping Boy, and Automatic. The whole CD rocks and there are 24 songs so it keeps you entertained for a long time. To make it short.....BUY THIS CD IF YOUR AN LTJ FAN OR JUST A PUNK/SKA FAN.

Nice combo CD, from a great band.
It's pretty simply stated that LTJ has worked hard to accomplish this collection of ska music. However, some of the songs are too crazy to handle, in my opinion. I've been a great fan of LTJ for a long time, but "Pez Collection" has been losing its firm grip.

This CD isn't that great; gets really old
LTJ's "Pez Collection" used to be my favorite CD. It had all of LTJ's greatest hits, like "Son of Dick" and "One Last Cigarette". However, as time went by, this CD faded from me. I used to listen to it all the time, but now, it's collecting dust in it's slot in my CD holder.

LTJ Fans Buy This!
The Pez Collection is a collection of Less Than Jake songs from there previous albums put together on one CD. It has all the best songs on this album and no Less Than Jake fan should be without it. It's only eighteen dollars for twenty-four of their greatest songs. A definite buy.

WOW
It seems LTJ puts out the best CD possible. This one is not an exception. With songs like Johnny Quest Thinks We're Sellouts, Automatic, and One last Cigarette this is my favorite LTJ CD. If you like LTJ or ska I recommend this to you. JUST BUY IT! ... Read more

Reviews (8)

This is one of my favorite cd's
This cd kicks ass! I love every song! A must have if you're into ska/punk.

The best VGS album EVER!!!!!
If you are at all questioning which VGS CD to buy, make it "Who Is This Is?"! This is VGS' peak! No other ska/punk/indie band can compare to VGS' sound on this CD. If you have any doubts just check out the sample of Insubordination. Just get it, you'll see what I'm talking about.

Voodoo glow skulls
Voodoo glow skulls is one of the best ska bands of today. With a combination of punk as well this cd is a must! This is they're first cd, and is still as good as their newest one, if not the best one!

THIS IS A GOOD DEBUT
This Cd is awesome. There isn't a bad song anywhere on it. SOngs like insubordination and Country phuck make this CD worth it. I bought this CD in las vegas in ceasars palace, and i had never heard a song on it, but i didn't worry because these guys have trouble writing bad songs, but this cD is great. Good for anyone

***It Rocks!***
The most SKA-like of Voodoo's albums. This is one of my favorite albums of all time! If you like fast, loud, and horns...BUY IT! Nothin' better... ... Read more

Amazon.com

Only the shrewdest music fan will remember that Goldfinger once threatened to trouble artists like No Doubt and Sugar Ray on the charts. The band's commercial stock has dipped since the runaway success of 1996's smirking ska-punk hit "Here in Your Bedroom," but, despite several key lineup changes, the members have worked hard to maintain a respectable level of belligerence in their music. If they were only younger and worked off those beer guts (and perhaps wore less clothing) they would undoubtedly give Blink-182 chase with adrenaline-packed songs like "Open Your Eyes" and "SpankBank." And if all were right in the world, "F*** Ted Nugent" ("I wish that he'd be gone / Chauvinistic Republican kills animals / He forgot how to write a song") would find a comfortable home on TRL. --Aidin Vaziri ... Read more

Reviews (50)

Excellent, Excellent
I got this CD a little over a week ago, and I must say its the only CD I've listened to. I read that a lot of hard-core Goldfinger fans don't like the album, which is fine. I used to only like a few songs from Goldfinger, whereas most of their stuff just seemed like poorly-written abrasive punk. However, when I got this CD, I was pleasantly suprised, and I absolutely love it. Sure, it's more poppy, but if you can get over the fact that Goldfinger has actually gotten better at song-writing rather than label them as pop-punk, then you'll enjoy this record. It's catchy and overall just plain rocks. Like others have said, if you like Blink 182, Green Day, or any other mainstream punk band, check out this CD. Top tracks? Probably Radio, Happy, and Going Home, in that order.

Well, it's still Goldfinger...
Goldfinger is a very cool band with a lot of talent and the ability to play a fantastic live show.

However, the new album retains the Gold energy but lacks the creativity of previous works. For the second straight album, much of Goldfinger's ska content is kept in check. Punk power is present, yet this album suffers from the virus infecting new music recently; it all sounds the same. I mean, you can tell it's Goldfinger, it's not like they sound Blink-ish but it seemed the well was running a little dry this time around.

Some highlights include the first two tracks, "Going Home" and "Spokesman", both of which are reminiscent of the older days. "Decison" is kool, and "Happy" is really sweet guitar work. "Radio" is very, very good and is a nice way to wind down your listening session. The rest, however, is just kind of blah.

When Goldfinger first emerged onto the national music scene with "Here in your Bedroom" I thought they had no chance of getting over the one hit wonder bump, but their mix of punk and ska survived the harsh world of radio-played music. I just purchased the new Weezer a week prior to this and both albums, although good, have fallen into the state of being unable to compete with previous efforts.

Great, Even if It's Not Hang-Ups...
The first Goldfinger CD I ever bought was Hang-Ups (for Superman) and I loved the entire CD. Well, I got a few extra bucks, and decided to go down to the store and buy another Goldfinger album, and I picked up this. When I first played it, first thing that came to mind was that it was ENTIRELY different from Hang-Ups, but not in a bad way. I am very open-minded with my rock music, I like all kinds (except maybe Death Metal), so the loss of Ska music in this album wasn't an insult to me at all. I personally like John's voice better rocking then making melodic sounds like in Ska. Well, if you are not yet convinced to buy this CD, I will give you a wrap up of the playlist.

[1] Going Home(4/5) - Short and sweet little intro song (about a minute and ½), I especially like the feedback in the intro, and it gets you in the feel for the rest of the album.
[2] Spokesman(5/5) - Another song that made me a huge Goldfinger fan. Talks about how the music of today has changed into more of a business than an art. Great lyrics, great music, great song.
[3] Open Your Eyes (4/5)- Awesome, powerful song. This song is about the slaughter of animals to make food. They really let their vegan colors fly in this one. The only reason why this is a four, is because I really don't like the screaming mid-track.
[4] Decision (4/5)- Very catchy song, very punk. I can't seem to get this song out of my head. The guitar in it reminds you somewhat of older Goldfinger.
[5] Dad (4/5)- Slow, peaceful, beginning, but turns heavier and louder later. Kind of poppy guitar, and always, Dangerous Darrin proves great on drums.
[6] Tell Me (4/5)- Another song that starts out soft and turns heavy (though not as heavy as "Dad"). Great lyrics, and the acoustic in the beginning of the song is pretty cool
[7] Liar (1/5)- Nothing spectacular, as it is a 19 second, not even a song (these are all the lyrics: Everybody lies/ What you gonna do). I normally just skip over this one
[8] January (4/5)- This is probably the slowest song on the album, not a bad thing though. John shows his lyrical talent in this one, but this is a great song that leads up to...
[9] Happy (5/5)- I LOVE this song, the guitar intro, the great lyrics, this song is close to my favorite on the album (next to Spokesman and Radio)
[10] Woodchuck (3/5)- Another not-even-a-minute song, but this one is actually kind of funny, since it makes fun of the Metal genre, whereas Liar serves no purpose at all.
[11] It's Your Life (4/5)- Another song kind of like January, but this one has better vocals, where january had better guitar. This song is very good.
[12] Spank Bank (3/5)- One more joke-song on the playlist, this one tops the minute. Not for the non-sick-minded, as this song is about masturbation. But if you like Goldfinger, chances are you are sick minded
[13] Youth (4/5)- This one is nothing special, it has good guitars and everything, but it really does not stand out to me.
[14] Radio (5/5)- This song is the best! Great chorus, and it kinda gets you stoked when you here the whole band singing. Definately a party song.
[15] FTN (4/5)- Extremely funny, makes fun of Ted Nugent for being cruel to animals, and calls Jennifer Lopez fat (finally another guy who isn't obsessed with her). Great fun.
[16] (No name) (3/5)- Hidden track of prank phone calls. They are kind of childish, but they are quite funny.
[17} Wayne Gretzky (4/5) Hillarious! Dangerous Darrin (the drummer) plays guitar and sings about Wayne Gretzky. Although somewhat disturbing, very funny.

If this hasn't sold you, I don't know what will. If you are a music/Goldfinger fan like myself, go out and get this album. Especially if you are somebody who doesn't criticize the music just because they are stuck in the past with their Ramones and Sex Pistols. This is great NOW, and if you just listen to one song, you will agree with me.

Yep
I like this new direction from goldfinger. They got rid of the ska on stomping ground (good move, although i enjoyed the self-titled album) and now they have introduced more pop now charlie has left. Usually i hate punk bands turning pop but goldfinger make it work well. This is also goldfinger's best album lyrically, which is clearly their weakest aspect. Probably a good starting point if your interested in the band.

Not GF's best work
It is clear why the music style on Open Your Eyes differs, and is a bit harder, than previous Goldfinger albums. With the departure of Charlie, their former lead guitarist, so went some of the punk/ska style. Their current lead guitarist used to be in the band Unloco, which is more of a hard rock band. It's natural that with his hard rock influences that Goldfinger's music will follow suit. He brings a whole new side of creativity to the table. That being said, the album does have its moments. Woodchuck, though short and campy, exhibits that newly-found harder edge. Also, Radio helps bridge the gap between GF's new sound and old. In a sense, the songs do not feel sincere as a whole. It is as though the band wrote them in an effort to release something new and to provide new material to play live. Let's hope that the next GF album strives to provide the experience that late-90s GF albums did, even though their music style has evolved through the years. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Smashmouth have their gig down. They're a ska-metal combo and they look it, breathe it, and sound it--from the requisite short hair to the thumping bass to the mostly silly lyrics. They've got something more, though--namely a pop sensibility that really clicks, if only here and there. The brilliant single "Walking on the Sun," with its arch wordplay, great production and undeniable hooks, will probably land them on the ever-growing pile of 1990's one-hit wonders, but there's some other good stuff to investigate on Fush Yu Mang; chiefly the insightful props of "The Fonz" and the angry "Nervous in the Alley." You can forget the lame closing cover of War's "Why Can't We Be FriENDs" though. --Michael Ruby ... Read more

Reviews (27)

The Greatest CD in the world
Every song on this cd is good! I think that Flo, Beer Goggles, and Nervous in the Alley are as good as Walking on the Sun! Smash mouth should have given the radio stations the whole cd instead of the Walkin on the Sun promo! Three best things in the world in one:

Best Artist: Smash mouth!

Best Album: Fush Yu Mang!

Best Song: Walking on the Sun!

A good solid CD
Of all the songs on this album I probably like Walkin on the Sun the least, which says a lot about the album. Well, I don't like the "Friends" song much either. I know this album is not for everyone and it doesn't fit in well anywhere but its the best of Smash Mouth. (I don't like "All Star" much or their new lounge style.)

Fush Yu Mang
Fush Yu Mang is a very great Cd with Smash Mouth's oldest songs that were on the radio when i was 2! Fush Yu Mang actually means the F word and "You man". I thought it was a Chinese codeword sentence or something since you can barely read it on the cover in the unusual writing it's printed in. This Cd shows when Smash Mouth was getting started and cussed in their songs.
There is a PARENTAL ADVISORY EXPLICIT CONTENT tag on the cover.

1. Flo. A pretty good beginning and pretty much one of my favorites on the Cd. ****

2. Beer Goggles. I like the Wooh-oh chorus at the beginning and the fact that it's only 2 minutes long! Pretty short song for a heavy-rock band. ****

3. Walking On The Sun. One of my favorite Smash Mouth oldies of the 90's. When it gets to the chorus singing "So don't delay, act now, supplies are running out" it's kinda hard to understand what everyone's saying. *****

4. Let's Rock. Extreme heavy metal beginning and the "Let's Rock" chorus metal is awesome. I like the middle part of the song where we hers guitars doing 50 and drums blaring. *****

5. Heave-Ho. Another one of my favorites. The drum and guitar rock is great along with the "I got a whiny neighbor" chorus and silly voices. *****

6. The Fonz. The "Houston here we go" static background vocal is a cool beginning then major drum and guitar blaring and rock. The "You're The Fonz" background vocals adds to the fun of the song. *****

7. Pet Names. The "X, Your X, Your X, chorus is my favorite part of the song and the ending with the lead singer asking pet names always getting "No X". Finally, after Pumpkinface he gets "X"

8. Padrino. One of my least favorites. **

9. Nervous In The Alley. Another least favorite song. **

10. Disconnect The Dots. Yet another least favorite. **

11. Push. Love it! Crazy guitar blaring music and awesome ending! *****

12. Why Can't We Be Friends?. Don't like it especially the incredibly long chorus repeating the song's name until it reachs 4:46. **

fush yu mang
Let's rock is a great song and so is walkin' on the sun.I always wanted fush yu mang. So smash mouth's fush yu mang is a great cd.

austin
I love the song let's rock on that album you should buy smash mouth fush yu mang rock on smash mouth ... Read more

Amazon.com

The latest in a series of punk compilations courtesy of Epitaph Records, Straight Outta the Pit is a snarling, high-energy affair featuring 24 acts. With fervent music from the likes of Rancid, the New Bomb Turks, and Bad Religion, this collection showcases several top-notch punk ensembles. While all of the selections have been previously released, except for "Fight It" by L.A.'s Pennywise, there are some neglected classics to savor, including "Don't Panic" by Seattle's Gas Huffer, and "It's My Life" by the infamous Agnostic Front. The only performance that doesn't complement the raucous nature of Punk-O-Rama 4 is Tom Waits singing "Big In Japan," but it's a slice of skewed weirdness all the same. With a slew of superlative punk rock bands rounding out the lineup, this compilation consistently delivers.--Mitch Myers ... Read more

Reviews (24)

Punk-o-rama 4
This cd is a great punk cd. Its not as good as the 3 before it but NOFX,Millencolin, and Pennywise are really good on it. I especially love ten foot pole. If you're looking for a great mix of punk, BUY THIS CD! Epitaph did a pretty good job.

The best punk compilation I have ever heard
I know most reviews say that this is not the best Punk O Rama volume. But I'll have to disagree. It's the best.
You can always rely on good songs by NOFX and Pennywise.
But the highlights of this CD are 1998 by Rancid (very catchy song in the typical Rancid way), Faster than the World by Pulley (a good fast song), Hopeless Romantic by Bouncing Souls, Think the World by All, and Getaway by Ten Foot Pole (all three really good pop punk songs).
The only song I ever skip on this CD is Big in Japan by Tom Waits. That song's annoying!
Get this CD. You won't regret it as you listen to it over and over again.

Weak effort Punk-O-Rama
This album was good and all but it just seems like they grabbed a handful of songs and threw them on a CD. The songs featured are not the best by the bands.

Gimme a break...
Come on people.

I can't understand you don't get bored with compilations like these. It's fun to discover new bands but you can't base your judgement on one song only so you need to find another source still to find out if you really found a new band.
Ok, this is not the worse out there. There are worse compilations, but well. Some are better. Punk-O-Rama 2 and 3 are better than this one, so I'd say buy them IF you want to buy a compilation. I prefer EP's and albums though.

Also, why is Tom Waits on this compilation? Yes, I know why; because's he on Epitaph...but isn't this called PUNK o rama?

Punk o mania
This is a great cd to listen to while driving, working, partying, whatever. It is a good collection of songs from a bunch of good punk bands. (not blink 182, sum 41 etc.) It is more than likely that after listening to this a few times, you will be singing along and air-guitaring with many of the songs. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Fans of Goldfinger's likable ska hit "Here in My Bedroom" have a surprise in store on Stomping Ground: there's nary a ska tune on the record. Still, the SoCal punk attitude and general vibe of this smart, high-energy band remain intact. Singer John Feldmann delivers the goods à la Green Day or Rancid through rapid-fire, slightly snotty vocal stylings atop smart and memorable punk-pop melodies. But Stomping Ground, the quartet's first full-length collection since 1997's Hang-Ups, boasts a heavier bent, thanks in part to the addition of bassist Kelly LeMieux (Feldmann's former partner in an early '90s metal-leaning outfit). "End of the Day," with its marching-style chorus and frenetic verses is moshable and memorable, while "Bro" melds Limp Bizkit with Suicidal Tendencies. The cover of Nena's "99 Red Balloons" is fun, but the band fares well on its own, especially on the winning and less-frenetic "Margaret Ann" and the pull-no-punches "Get Away." Stomping Ground may be ska-free, but Goldfinger's music still leaves the listener shaken and stirred. --Katherine Turman ... Read more

Reviews (79)

Overall, a good cd, with some excellent songs
I never really got into Goldfinger too much. I didn't really care for their last cd, "Hang Ups" due to it's filler songs. Don't get me wrong, "Hang Ups" has some great songs on it, like "Superman" and "My Head", but there were too many dumb, bland filler tracks. Anyway, My friend downloaded an MP3 of the 99 red ballons cover on here, and I knew I had to get this cd.

Well, I'm glad I did. "Stomping Ground" is in my opinion, Goldfinger's best cd. I think they do punk better than they do ska, I'll leave my favorite ska band to Reel Big Fish. My favorite track on the cd is probaly "The End of the Day", which just simply rocks. My other favorites are "I'm Down", "Pick a Fight", "Don't Say Goodbye", "San Simeon", "Forgiveness" and of course "99 Red Ballons". The entire cd has a strong punk sound all the way through it, and it sounds good. The only reason I didn't give this cd a 5 was because there are a few songs I could never get into, mainly "Carry On" and "Bro".

So, if you need another good sounding punk cd in your collection, be sure to pick this cd up, you'll be glad you did when listen to it again all the way through for the fifth time.

How can you not like this??
As I read the different reviews of this CD, really the only reviewers that gave it less than 4 stars, I found out, didn't like it because it didn't remind them of "Hang-Ups". YA THINK??? That's kinda the point, people. There are no ska songs on the album, and so if you are expecting to hear mellow Goldfinger, maybe this album's not for you. But for the rest of us who appreciate Goldfinger's unique sound, whether hardcore punk or mellow ska, we know just how great this CD is. From the great sounding "I'm Down", to the catchy "99 Red Balloons", they rock all throughout the CD, and I don't think there is a song on here I don't like. They still keep their sense of humor on "Donut Dan". This is a MONUMENTAL CD. Usually I don't use big words like monumental, but this is a special CD! Buy it and you will enjoy it. That simple.

Greatest CD ever
This CD is really cool. The song I really like is 99 Red Balloons. I first heard 99 Red Balloons on GT3. I also like a song called Donut Dan.

You Need This
I have had this CD for about a year, and I still listen to it. I bought this CD because Hang-Ups and self-titled were good. I listen to this CD almost everyday. All of the songs are really good except Bro and San Simeon, especially Bro. What the hell is that? That still won't make me take away a star because of that. The best songs are: I'm Down, Pick A Fight, You Think It's A Joke, Forgiveness, Magrgaret Ann, Get Away, and 99 Red Balloons (The Nena 99 luftballons cover) Goldfinger used to be Punk/Ska and this CD is all Punk. I like this CD as much as self-titled. Goldfinger is one of the best punk bands out there. Other good bands are: NOFX, MXPX, Pennywise, Reel Big Fish, Mighty Mighty Bosstones. Darrin is awesome at the drums and John has really good lyrics. If you don't buy this CD, you are missing out. If you don't like it you don't like punk. Everyone should own a copy of this CD.

Golfinger has done it again.
Yeah! Goldfinger has done it again. Another great CD from this great band. The best songs are I'm Down, Pick A Fight, Carry On, Don't Say Goodbye, and Forgiveness. If you like bands like Blink 182, Fenix TX, and MXPX, you will surely enjoy this CD. ... Read more

Reviews (13)

Sublime are better, yet this is worth listening to
If you're a huge Sublime fan, I don't think you should buy this. Yet it is a good CD to listen to. It's the type of music that is played in a posh pub. If you want to buy this, I reccomend WHAT I GOT, 40 OUNCES 2 3DOM and WHAT HAPPENED. Not the type to listen to in your car, the type to relax to.

if you like sublime you will hate this
This cd is crap I cant express how much I hate it

Chill out Computer Geeks!
This is a good CD and like said it is not meant to be taken seriously its a chill listen, and if you take enough time to actually say its an insult to sublime and critisize it so much you really need a hobby. Dont listen to the haters ppl this cd is a good listen especially for in the car or a rainy day! haters get a f*ckin life!

This Cd is Jammin
A tribute to subline indeed. This Cd hearing the mellow sounds from this Cd gives me that same feeling that I had the first time I listened to Bad Fish. Don't hate appreciate.

Sacrilegious "doesnt deserve a rating"
Sacrilegious. That one word is enough. This is painfull to listen to god bless those who dare listen to this hellbound cd. Theres going to be a sublime support group to all there fans who hear this. Im sorry about what your parents did to you there no need to taint sublimes name like this. ... Read more

Album Description

To celebrate their 10-year anniversary the band decided toremix and remaster their first full length and what betterlabel to do it on than Fueled By Ramen, which is owned by Vinnie (Drummer of Less Than Jake). 2002. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

It's PezcorE
very good cd remake of ltj's first all the songs r good much of an old skool style

Fab
I've got all of the Less Than Jake records, and their best of CD, and of the albums this (their debut) seems to be one of the best. They play ultra-energetic ska-punk, they have cool shouty vocals and they sound great. This record contains such classics as "Liqour Store", "Johnny Quest Thinks We're Sellouts" and "Jen Doesn't Like Me Anymore", which you may have heard in clubs if you've been lucky. So if you like ska-punk, this is a must buy, although a better introduction to the band is probably the Pezz collection, which has all of the stand-out tracks I mentioned, plus loads more from their (many, many) other records.

Classic
Are you crazy. This is classic ska-punk from one of the most inovative and creative bands there is.

Less Than Jake has done it once again
Less Than Jake has always been my all-time favorite band and I have loved almost every single song they have ever written. This is the re-recorded version of the album they put out back n 94, Pezcore. The original Pezore was fine just the way it was, except for the {poor}recording quality, which has been fixed in this version. The style they used for this album is the standard ska sound, as opposed to their newer "punk with a horns section", used on both Hello Rockview and Borders and Boundaries. I HIGHLY recommend this CD to anyone who has ever heard and liked a Less Than Jake song.

10 yrs Later, It's still Great!
Seeing as the original version of Pezcore is an excellent cd, this new version HAS to be good, right? That in mind, the 10 year birthday re-release is just as good as the original, if not better. First off, all aspects of the cd have been polished to a shine, which can be a good thing or a bad thing depending on how you like your music. All the guitar riffs, blasting horns, and blazing vocals play with amazing clarity for an album that was recorded 10 years ago on a small budget. The new artwork for the booklet is great and is filled with all sorts of interesting little tidbits of info and interesting little pictures. My favorites would have to be the picture of the little girl eating cereal from a box that says "Less Than Jake O's" and Vinnie talking about how he framed the rejection letter from FAT in which Fat Mike tells the guys to "not quit your day job." But should you buy the new Pezcore? Well yes, and no. Yes if: A) you don't already own any version of it or B) If you are a really big LTJ fan who loved the original Pezcore. No if: A)you already own it and don't see the point in buying something you already have B)You didn't like the original Pezcore. Let's face it, if you didn't like it 10 years ago, your not gonna like it now.

I give it 5 stars because despite losing a little bit of its raw edge, Pezcore is still just plain old great music. ... Read more

Reviews (15)

The best combination of ska and reggae
I love this CD, by far my favorite album. The Pilfers never leave my car, good driving music. And if you are feeling down listen to "Choose Life", and it will pick you up again. There are no bad songs on this CD---BUY IT!!! I think mostly everyone that buys this CD has seen them live. I had never heard of them until they opened for The Amazing Crowns----see them live, listen to this CD. Dance, feel happy.

Pilfers do it again (only this time people will hear it!)
Pilfers have done it again. They've made another record full of hardcore reggae and fast paced ska. This band deserves to start blowing up and with this new major lable CD I hope they do. If you ever get a chance to see them live do it.

Fine for the uninitiated, disappointing to the rest of us.
In the fall of 1999 it seemed as if the Pilfers were set to conquer the world. They had built a large underground fanbase in a very short time and were at the center of a large major label bidding war which Universal/Mojo Records eventually ended up winning. At 1999's CMJ fest it looked like Universal/Mojo was going to give this band one of the biggest pushes for a band ever and posters and flyers for "Chawalaleng" covered every inch of New York City.

So what went wrong? When the album was released in September of 1999 it was seen as a major disappointment to many of the bands fans when compared to the Pilfers first self produced/released album. That first Pilfers record (released in 1998) was raw and hard, full of amazing hooks and blistering horn solos. It truly captured the essence of a Pilfers live show with all of it's fire and intensity.

"Chawalaleng" by comparison sounds very overproduced with many of the original elements of the bands sound have been replaced with electronic beatbox noises. The Pilfers also made the grave mistake of re-recording three songs from the original Pilfers album ("Hypnotized", "Climbing" and "Saga" which sound HORRIBLE compared to the originals, all victims of this new polished over produced sound. Other songs from "Chawalaleng" are just plain cheesy through and through such as "Choose Life".

"Chawalaleng" isn't all bad however, and does has it's moments. "Mr Exploita" is reminicant of the Pilfers first record and the new version of Coolie's song "Legal Shot" (originally performed with the Toasters) is also very good. "Why" captures the full range of the Pilfers quite nicely. Not all of the experimentation is bad either. "Skungle" is perhaps one of the most suprising and intriging songs on this CD. But overall it never comes close of reaching the heights or "elevation" achieved on the Pilfers first CD.

If you've never heard the Pilfers before, you will probably enjoy this CD very much...However if you get a chance to listen to the Pilfers first record, you will see how this is pale in comparison.

Pilfers
The Pilfer are a great band. The first time I every heard them I went to one of there shows, and I feel in love with the way the music sounded and I have both of there albums. They are a mixed kind of music it's S.K.A, Punk, and Regga all mixed together, they have great songs.

They're awesome
I had never listened to ska/reggae before, then i went to their concert they are so great. This CD is awesome, try and get their first self entitled cd if you can. Go to one of their concerts these guys are going to make it big. ... Read more