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

Amazon.com's Best of 2000

Albums that make Amazon.com's yearly "best of" list aresometimes judged using high-falutin' artsy talk. Rancid haslanded on the list because it compelled editors to scribble anarchysymbols in public hallways, buy skateboards, and start punk bands.Twenty-two songs, 39 minutes, and not one wasted second. A pure punkjoyride with the throttle wide open. --S. Duda ... Read more

Reviews (151)

...And Out Comes The Mediocrity
I've spent the last decade listening to Rancid religiously so this review is from a fan's view. When I saw Rancid on the Life Won't Wait tour, I couldn't figure out why they refused to play much of the newer, experimental tracks from the album. Here was the most experimental, interesting, and downright soulful punk album I'd ever heard & they instsited on playing the same thrash standards of albums past. On this new album, it seems Rancid is still afraid of the brilliant new sounds it created on Life Won't Wait. Tim wrote & sings a vast majority of these new songs, which aren't bad, but it's done at the expense of their versatality. Lars is a great singer & songwriter, why is he on so few songs? At least Matt gets 2 songs. But the main problem I have w/ this album is that it looks like Rancid responded to the predictable & idiotic cries of "Sellout" by putting out an album that grinds through at 100 MPH. On the one hand, no on puts out albums like this anymore, so it is fun to a degree. But there's little diversity over the 38 minutes (save Rawanda, Radio Havana). Life Won't Wait showed it's diversity by mixing reggae, punk, ska, harcore, rockabilly, etc. This album's diversity is limited to an occasional chorus sung in half-time. Why are Rancid so concerned with a bunch of a-holes crying sellout? Criticizing something just because it's different is the true essence of a real sell-out. Who knows, maybe Rancid wanted to get some good old fashioned Thrash out of their system in order to brace the world for their NEXT brave record. I'll love Rancid to the death so they have my support to the fullest. And to whoever that Skinhead was who wrote that insane previous post - this album has ZERO to do with "white pride", instead it touches on the struggles of oppressed people in Rawanda & Havana. Keep on...

Whooooooo.....
I think it's no coincidence that this is Rancid's second self-titles album... the pumped up street punk sound on Rancid (2000) reminds me of the 1993 self titled debut; a louder, faster, more energetic Rancid than was shown to us on Life Won't Wait.

It seems each Rancid album prior to this had a little more reggae and ska influence than the last; then this release seemed a throw back to the first one. This does lead me to wonder what form of Rancid will appear on their next release (2003 I believe....).

Personally, I thought Rancid (2000) was a perfect blend of fast guitar's, the crazy bass riffs you'd expect from Matt Freeman, and the ever wonderful vocals of Tim, Lars AND Matt. However, if you thought Life Won't Wait the best Rancid album ever, maybe this one isn't the best buy for you.

Some People Are Indeed Poison
To say that Rancid's second self titled album hits you like a freight train once you press start is an understatement. Following the sprawling, epic "Life Won't Wait", Rancid cut out the fat and give you thirty eight minutes of circle pit anthems.
So, what's the problem with "Rancid"? Well, to be honest, it feels like two step back for the band. I was one of the few people who loved "Life Won't Wait", so hearing this record for the first time was a slight dissapointment. There are really no surpirses to be found on this record. Rancid are merely retreading ground that perfected on their first two records(1993's "Rancid" and 1994's "Let's Go!")
But over the past four years or so, I have learned to like this record on its many charms. With a million crappy pop-punk bands substituting Pro-Tools and songs about girls for attitude and songs, "Rancid" is Rancid's angriest, hardest record ever. But to the end, its also one of their most melodic and entertaining.

"Don Giovanni" and "Disgruntled" get the record off to a great start, getting the blood flowing with their one-two punch. More melodic, Rancid-esque songs quickly follow with the great "It's Quite Alright" and "Let Me In". Through the next eighteen songs, "Rancid" sounds like the band always have: fast, furious and melodic, with honest, smart lyrics(when they can understood). All Rancid have done here really is trim away the ska-punk sound of "...and out come the wolves" and the everything-and-the-kitchen-sink sounds of "Life Won't Wait" and trimmed down the fat for twenty two quick, perfect Rancid songs.
Though if your new to the band, this wouldn't be the first Rancid disc I would pick up(that would be "Let's Go!"), "Rancid" is still a great rock record that is more rewarding everytime you listen to it.

Back To Harcore
4.5 Actually. Ok, I'm not excactly a fan of the whole ska thing, maybe that's why this is my favorite one yet. The other albums may have had stronger songs, but this one hits the hardest. "Don Giovanni" is relentless and flies by in a breeze. There seems to be no central theme throughout the album, except rage. But hey, Rancid would not be Rancid without the hooks. There plently of those here and they're immediately catchy. People can say whatever they want, but these guys are like the kings when it comes to catchy punk hooks. To top it off, they combine it with a hardcore sound. This album is VERY fast, loud, hard and really fun. "Radio Havanna's" great. As a whole, it's the best one yet.

not their best work
this cd goes to show how much rancid likes to expierament. this comes off as both a good and a bad thing. the good is that theres nothing wrong with a little variety, the bad is that rancid already had their best sound down pat long before this CD was even a twinkle in Tim Armstrong's eyes. Now before you say i wasnt helpful, go listen to lets go and out come the wolves by Rancid, and you'll understand. ... Read more

Amazon.com

In 1999, Exodus was rightfully voted the most important album ofthe 20th century by Time magazine. This is the visionaryBob Marley masterpiece, aconcept album that distills the myriad experiences of both our daily lives andcollective unconsciousness into 46 minutes of aural perfection. The deluxe CDreissue of Exodus has been flawlessly remastered from the originalrecordings and showcases what is probably the Wailers' tightest recordedperformance. The initial notes of the album's opening track, "Natural Mystic,"fade up from a deep silence, giving the listener the impression that the musicgenerates from within a continuum of past, present, and future. The first halfof Exodus bears witness to Marley's shift in focus away from the mundaneproblems of Babylon existence and toward a greater understanding of vitaluniversal truths. The second half features songs like "Jamming" and "Waiting inVain," which take a gently wistful look at the more interpersonal aspect ofhuman relations. This deluxe edition offers a remastered and expanded version ofthe original album. --Rebecca Levine ... Read more

Reviews (10)

A healing power remastered
There are so many great things about Exodus. . .I think this album has been eclipsed by the popular greatest hits collections over the years, but it stands as a monument to love and peace and righteousness. Great thing #1. This is another of Universals top of the line"Deluxe Edition" reissues. That means great packaging, additional liner notes, and digital remastering. Listening to this Jammin' compared to my 1989 Legend version is like day and night. This totally pops. Great thing #2. The liner notes. The notes reground the album in the political and personal events in Marley's life. Its important to remember that these songs were written right after his assassination attempt. . .and after Rita was injured. These love songs are for her. And for Jamaica which was ripping apart. I think the assassination attempt also inserted a sense of urgency to many of these tracks. The notes also reminds us how Junior Marvin (BRILLIANT!) joined Marley at this time, and how his funky background may have influenced Exodus. And finally, the notes reconnect Marley with musical touchstone Lee "Scratch" Perry, mostly on the additional tracks. Great Thing #3. The Additional Tracks. The live tracks from the Rainbow are the best. This band cooked like few others of the era. I had heard the Punky Reggae Party tracks before on bootlegs, but here they are pristine. The final track thrown on is the original radio ad for Exodus. Uni did this for Marvin Gaye and other albums in the Deluxe series and I like this. It takes me back to 77/78 and WPLJ! (who played marley on saturday nights I seem to recall.)
This is a beautiful funky album - Marley's best in my opinion. This edition is a must have for Reggae fans and for Marley devotees.
"The thing about music, when it hits you, you feel no pain." Bob Marley.

Bob Marley's Greatest Album in Incredible Package
When all of Bob Marley and the Wailers island albums were rereleased except Exodus I knew there was a reason. It's all quite simple now since the Deluxe edition hss been released. For starters on the first disc you get the 10 songs from the original album which are great, and have been reviewed tima and time again. Time acutally called it the album of the Century. But then you get the bonus tracks. "Roots" is a really good song, the alternate version of "Waiting in Vain" is better than the original in my opinion, and as far as the other versions of "Jamming" any true reggae fan loves a good dub so that's killer, as is the dub of "Exodus"

Then we get to the live section which i think has better versions of songs than "Babylon By Bus", which has always been my personal favorite album. "War/No More Trouble", "Jamming", and "Exodus" are just simply phenominal.

Next is the "Punky Reggae Party" with the dub version, finally a way to get the original studio version of this song, which until now was very hard to do. Also there's the "Keep On Moving" which has always been a great song.

I consider this to be the best reissue of all the BMW material thus far this year, though "Burnin'" and "Catch a Fire (2CD) were also really good. I just wish now all the original Jamacian versions of BMW Island albums would be released. It's just amazing how many of these albums are sold, despite the fact that Bob Marley passed away nearly 20 years ago.

Buy this double disc set and be happy!!!! :)

Deluxe is right!
This CD is incredible. The "Deluxe Edition" series seems to have hit the nail on the head. The sound is excellent, and the extra tracks actually add to the experience. This is one awesome CD.

I also recommend "Mississippi Muddy Waters Liver" Deluxe Edition.

Live material awesome- "Jamming" to "Exodus"- the best!
I can't say I like the first CD more than the second; its just a question of what type of mood I am in at the time. There are many beautiful songs from LEGEND that I already loved on CD1 ("Waiting in Vain," "Three Little Birds," etc.) but the songs I hadn't heard are good for the most part. The bonus songs are quite good too. The best part though overall has to be on CD2 with the mind-staggering twenty minutes of "Jamming" into "Exodus." I never thought reggae could be so inspiring and powerful! Geat stuff!

for the bob marley completist
a college favorite i never grew tired of. of course, i couldn't possibly complain about an entire album's worth of bonus tracks, its meticulous 24bit remastering and it's superb packaging could i?

remastered reissues are often considered poor excuses for record companies to make money.

i don't have problems with this one this time. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Good old Mod Reggae
This is an excellent Box Set with amazing music, and a very interesting history. Often the music of the Mods is sometimes limited by sources to Soul and British Rock bands like the Who, however, this Box Set reminds the public of the increasing popularity of ska/reggae with Mods, and the role it plays in Mod culture and fashion. This Box Set is priceless and I am very glad I purchased it. ... 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 (3)

Worship/Hallelujah Music + Ska Music = Skallelujah
Now im going to be extremely clear about this, i am not a big fan of worship/praise music. But if you add a little spice to it, you get this awesome album. Extremely good for a worship album, especially if you have one of the most best and anticipated ska bands ever and add their style. I highly reccomend this to any worship fan, worship only.

still good......but not great
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!!!!!!

good stuff
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. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Say the words "change of sound" to a fan in regard to their favorite band's latest release and check for a reaction.In the case of the Suicide Machines, a lot of folks who enjoyed Destruction by Definition and Battle Hymns will likely use the s word when referring to the Detroit-based band's third effort: sellout. Instead of high-octane ska and punk, the Suicide Machines have ventured into Green Day-Blink 182 territory. The opening track "Sometimes I Don't Mind" (a salute to bassist Royce Nunley's dog) is inoffensive at worst, catchy as hell at best.When the band rears back and blasts out more gristle-laced heavings like "I Hate Everybody," it almost sounds forced.The band's future may be in sunshiny, upbeat power pop--the hooks on "Perfect Day" and "Too Many Words" are not for the jaded.This disc fits the cliché "short but sweet" perfectly. --Jason Josephes ... Read more

Reviews (77)

Fun-filled, catchym pop-punk
This CD is a great CD which shows you a great time, it's the first Suicide Machines CD I got, now I have Destruction by Definition, Battle Hymns, and Steal This Record, all of which are awesome. This is probably my favorite b/c of songs like Permanent Holiday and Extraordinary. This CD is a little different. It's really not that big of a change in my view, and I'm obsessed with music. If you like energy-filled pop-punk you'll love this CD. The reason most people hate this CD is b/c it's different and they can't deal with the FACT that every band on the face of the earth WILL change their sound at least once, but not put themselves completely outside of a genre. In this case, the genre is punk. Ska is a type of punk with reggae influences. Get this CD if you like incredibly catchy pop-punk.

It's Trash even if you dont like Punk
This album is terrible. I'm sorry but there's no other way to put it. I was so excited when they came out with this album, I raced to the record store to buy it. Luckily I was in a place that let me listen to it first. This cd is so bland and dry it makes R.E.M. seem exciting. (That was borrowed from another reviewer--it is the truth) The novelty song "Sometimes I Dont Mind" is pretty fun to listen to but otherwise this album has no emotion, no energy, and is not at all interesting. After listening to this, I seriously felt sick to my stomach.

Also, like someone else said, I could not believe it was the same band-- I had to make sure it wasn't some other band with the same name to believe it. Terrible, just terrible.

Forget the whole debate of whether they sold out or not (Who really cares anyway??) this album is simply unenjoyable to listen to and that's all there is to it.

(4.5) A different sound for this band, but it works!
As evidenced by many previous reviews, some hardcore fans of The Suicide Machines' earlier work on their "Destruction by Definition" and "Battle Hymns" albums might have a bone to pick with this one. This self-titled record is a definite departure from the harsher sound they started off with. Now they've taken a turn for a more pop-rock sound, with some very catchy, melodic songs (the last track, "I Never Promised You A Rose Garden" is particularly symphonic). Personally, I love it. While I like their older work, I think this style fits them just as well. I like to see bands experiment and branch out, demonstrating their diversity.

Most of the songs have a very energized, up-beat feel to them. In addition, each one has a distinct message to deliver or story to tell, and the lyrics are easy to pick up on without having to read along. I find this appealing in comparison with so many bands that turn out songs with nonsense lyrics, or lyrics that can't be discerned at all without seeing them on paper. Some of the tracks on this album are light-hearted, such as "Sometimes I Don't Mind" and "Extraordinary," and others are more serious in content, like "Fade Away" and "Reasons."

I only have a few very minor criticisms of this album. First of all, it's too short. The songs are all very quick, some only a little over a minute in length, and therefore I wish they'd included a few more tracks to provide a little more listening time. Secondly, there are two songs that don't really seem to fit with the overall feel of the CD. While I like "I Hate Everything" and especially "Reasons" as songs in themselves, they are much harsher and more abrasive than the rest of the tracks, seemingly throwbacks to the band's earlier work. Placed on this album, they hit like small earthquakes in the midst of relative tranquility. I think they may have been better grouped on a different album with songs more in the same vein. On the whole, however, I really can't help but like this CD. I find myself listening to it over and over again.

Great CD, but look deeper into the music
Sure the Suicide Machines released a very different album than their two previous. I'm sick of hearing people get angry at them for "selling out" or trying to break into the mainstream market. Have you heard any of these songs on the radio? You have to look deeper into the music to find their real ambitions. First off, this CD is great regardless of whether you are a fan of the first two or not. The songs have great hooks which make this a "feel good" record. Now, here is my theory. Every song on this album is different. If you look at the industry trends about this time you'll see that many songs fall right into a particular category. From pop-punk, to symphonic ballads, to rap/hardcore crossover. This album is a spit in the face to their own major record label. My theory is that the major label, disturbed by the low sales of their second album were trying to force them to make an album that was commercially more acceptable. The Suicide Machines intentionally took it way over the limit to make fun of/spite major record labels and mainstream music. This is not a serious album, it is a joke. But it's a damn catchy joke and worth every penny you spend on it. BUY IT!!!!

decent but not the best
i think that this cd isnt really that bad . ... i think that sometimes i dont mind is a great song and you should buy it just for that ... Read more

Amazon.com

Mirroring secular counterparts, Christian ska and swing bands continue to infuse the contemporary-Christian-music market. The W's made quite a splash with their debut, Fourth from the Last, winning a 1999 Dove Award for best modern rock/alternative album. While there's an irony about retro-swingers like the W's winning a "modern rock" award, you can't deny that these six young men from Corvallis, Oregon, spin up a spirited and punchy set of horn-driven swing-ska. Singer-guitarist Andrew Schar introduces us to a safe, but colorful array of slackers, skaters, and surfers that populate his world. Bassist Todd Gruener and drummer Brian Morris lay a solid rhythm track throughout and provide a foundation for the jumpin' jive from Valentine Hellman (tenor sax, clarinet), Bret Barker (trumpet), and James Carter (alto sax).--Michael Lyttle ... Read more

Reviews (99)

nothing substantial
Look, here's the deal.

The lyrics are really simple (which can be good if you're just listening to it in the background) and they don't seem to say a whole lot. This isn't too much of a problem unless they think that they're bringing to light theological truths. I say, write about what you know. So to all of those people out there who wine about how "there's only four songs you can call Christian" or whatever, SHUT UP. God put women on the earth, and sin brought problems here as well. It's totally okay for bands to write about this stuff . . . it's called life! Anyway, why the whole CCM community jumped on this CD I'll never know. I guess that the W's were the first really marketable Christian band who purported to be swing. Well folks, thet're not. Not in in the classical sense, and not really even in the modern sense. There are some really descent swing bands out there, and even a couple of Christian ones (ie Jason and the G-Men) if you're really concerned about having to listen to Christian music all of the time. The W's play catchy rock/punk tunes and throw in a couple of horns. This brings me to my biggest beef.

There's really not much to say about the musicality of this album. I myself am a brass player of sorts, and there is not much originality or difficulty in the music. If you're going to use horns, you really need to do it well. That's why I got annoyed with the band and album. Take some chances, and feel the music baby!

cha cha cha!
I heard this CD on one of it's first days out, and loved it and just had the pleasure of seeing The W's live at Creation '99 at the Gorge a few days ago and they were awesome! They gave the best concert, and even threw "jerky treats" to the fans. They did a song with Bob and Larry, and sounded just as good live as they did on their album, which is hard for some bands. The lead singer is adorable, and the music is swingin. And even better, the message of Christ is presented too! Basically, the W's are some hip Christian cats!

I think im in love...
Wonderful CD... as Mike said up there theyre not ska, they're swing, but they're still very good if you like the style. I went to a DC talk concert, and ended up liking the W's more. The W's broke up in 2000 i think, which was a very very sad day. But good news for all you The W's fans, The lead singer, Andrew Schar, has a new band, called Alpha-Charlie. They're far from famous yet, and their style is a lot different, but they're still awesome. Visit them at www.alpha-charlie.com.

Swing?
i love this CD
the guys in the band are awesome
i went to a concert with DC Talk Jennifer Knapp and The W's and it was an awesome show i got my tix signed by The W's
the cool thing was that some girl kept shoving my brother and i out of the way so she could get her ticket signed but then the lead singer, i forgot his name, said " no hold on they have been waiting for awhile." then he took our ticket stubs and signed em
i will remember that night forever...jk the CD is great i love The Devil is Bad its just an awesome CD
so if u dont have it buy it cuz i dont think you'll b seeing these guys on tour ever again
peace
Monica

I LUV THE W'S
omgosh this is a great cd i first heard the group when i heard the song "The Devil is Bad" and luved it! i also like this cd b/c it has really funny songs like "Dexter"and "Frank" i usually don't like "swing" but this cd could make anyone love it...these r the kind of songs that stick in ur head for years and u never forget the lyrics b/c they're so memorable ... Read more

Reviews (3)

One of the best of Rock en Español CDs
Inspector latest CD, Alma en Fuego, is one of the best CDs of Rock en Español. I highly reccomend it....for those of you who listen to Classic Rock and Altenative Rock, this CD will not disappoint you. Listen to it in ramdom order and you will be fascinated by the versatility of its music, and of course, the lyrics.

Can you say sell out?
Inspector have made a mainstream masterpiece! (note the sarcasm)... their debut album "Blanco y Negro" was a great 2-tone ska record, adored by rudies, punks and skinheads throught out the U.S., Mexico and Latin America. But what we have here with "Alma en Fuego" is a pop-rock record with a few up stroke guitar parts and some horns. There are 2 good songs on this album "Amnesia" and "Amargo Adios" (which was visciously murdered by the "Version Tequila"). "Rudeboy Stomper" was false advertising, and "Cara de Chango" just [is not good.] The rest of the album is so mediocre that I can't remember anymore of it! I would recommend this if you're into Shakira, Nek, Lou Vega and the rest of that "latin pop rock" mess.

Para volverse un clasico!!
Todo el disco es buenisimo, de esos raros discos que puedes poner y dejarlo tocar todo sin saltar pistas.
Amnesia es una cancion que seguramente sera un clasico en cualquier tocada de rock.
Todas son mis favoritas, hasta la version tequila.
Recomendable, vale la pena tenerlo en original , ademas nos estarian mandando mas rock y no solo nortenas. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Oi from a land not known for it
I felt that a Montana Skanker should review a Montana Ska band.The Times is a magnificent album and a must for any Traditional Ska fan, Oi fan, or Punk fan. The album features catchy ska and oi and some great Skunk. Last Night and the Times are two of the highlights on a CD that is full of them. Also be sure to check the remake of the the Clancy brothers BEER! Not To many times for me to take an advantage like this si just say Oi! if your from MT

OI! OI! OI!
this cd is wicked awsome mann!it's a good album to anyone whether you be a punk,Skin or Rudeboy,this album combines the best of all three scenes,Awsome oi,traditional ska,and some Punk rock.it's a great album and i suggest you buy it!

Great cd
This cd is awesome, it combines trad-ska with oi quite well for a great combination that really makes u wanna skank.

It is very good
I really like the skoidats. When I first got the CD it took a little time to get used to it but now I am hooked and I cant wait for the new CD to come out!!!!!!!!!!!!!! OI!!

Give it a few listens
I got this from a friend who lives in Montana and loves these guys. Good old ska from some rude boy skins with a little 77 and oi flavoring. You have to listen to this one a few times through to truly appreciate it, but it's well worth it. If you like the Toasters, check out the Skoidats! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Coxsonne Dodd's Kingston, Jamaica, recording studio may have lacked the latest equipment, but it was the laboratory where such legends as guitarist Ernie Ranglin experimented and made their greatest riddimic [cq] discoveries, and where young singers like Sugar Minott, the Wailing Souls, and The Heptones refined their vocal chops. During the time period covered in this first volume of Heartbeat's Studio One series (ca. late 1960s to early '70s), Ranglin and other stellar musicians like The Skatalites were the house band, composing tracks on the spot but usually uncredited on the innumerable vinyl classics that the studio churned out. Diehard reggaeites will recognize virtually every track but still thrill to hear The Cables' "Baby Why" elide into The Termites' "My Last Love," and a very young Dennis Brown's "Impossible" giving way to "The Heptone's "Party Time." Nonreggae-heads will wonder what they've been listening to these past 30 or so years. --Elena Oumano ... Read more

Reviews (3)

A Classic
Very solid comp from Heartbeat's collection of studio one masters. Heartbeat seems to have the best backlog of these old classics. To the listener of samples: The best tracks on this album are not those highlighted (Row, Fisherman Row by the Wailing Souls, Mr DC by Sugar Minott, and Jah Promise by Johnnie Osbourne are songs that any reggae fan will cling to.)

This is my fourth copy of this album (and NO you can't borrow it).

Ride Natty Ride...to Studio 1
I dont know what it is about this Studio 1 compilation but Coxone Dodd definitely did it right every time! Every track in my opinion is just a incredible roots track that really represents what "roots,rock reggae" is and was. Each track is really raw in the sense that you can tell that they didnt use any sophisticated recording techniques and they could still fill the song up with absolute roots creativity. Nothing was polished up or pampered, just true roots. In my opinion the Gladiators song makes the collection even more appealing. Bottom line this collection is def a roots reggae must have!

Reggae that you can listen to.
Take me back to a time when reggae was easy to listen to. Old school reggae is becoming obscure with the explosion of slack lyrics. These songs were about love, life, and politics. Before Bob Marley became a superstar, he was a member of the Wailing Souls. Listen to the nasal sounds of "Row Fisherman Row" and you'll start grooving to the lyrical tunes. Get this CD collection of reggae greats. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The beat that got a generation dancing and brought ska back into the public eye. Produced by Elvis Costello, then still a boy wonder himself, the album built on the sound of the Specials' first two singles, and gave the world its first extended look at Two Tone. Inspired writing and arranging (much of it down to founder Jerry Dammers) with Terry Hall as the laconic front man made for a perfect combination, the riddim of ska and the speed of punk. As a testament to its power, two decades haven't lessened its impact. --Chris Nickson ... Read more

Reviews (32)

A ska free-for-all
Even the absence of "Gangsters" can't deflate my joy in listening to this cd. (I can't say the same for the missing "Tears of a Clown" and "Ranking Full Stop" on the English Beat cd.)

I'll never forget when The Specials appeared on Saturday Night Live in 1981. They performed a searing, blistering "Gangsters" as they slam danced with the air around them. When they were through, the usually savvy New York audience was stunned. Dead silence. And I don't think it was because they were impressed: they just didn't know what they had just heard. But this Brooklyn boy was on his feet at home, jumping, and scrambling for pen and paper to remember this band's name so I could buy the album, which I did the next day.

I was in for more than I'd expected. Half this album's tunes are pure energy, the other half were more subtle reggae tunes. I thought The Specials were a tight, no-holds-barred, musically frenzied band. But there's something else: their songs carry incredibly intelligent, socially aware lyrics. Some songs are of the utmost seriousness. "It Doesn't Make It Alright" is a powerful indictment of racism. On the other hand, "Too Much Too Young" is a more witty, sarcastic look at teen pregnancy. There are strong messages in several songs, and this is an added plus. It is ska that is unafraid to approach any topic. It's fun, it's serious, it's damned good music.

Have you bought this cd yet?

An all time Classic
This is clearly the best Ska record ever made. Their debut album (the BBC had just aired The Specials John Peel Sessions, but it was not yet for sale. Also, their true debut was a 45rpm single of Gangsters whose B-side was titled The Selector and credited to The Selector, but in reality, The Selector was Jerry Dammers, John Bradbury, both from The Specials, and two of their roommates. I think it is the best song The Selector ever did).

If you listen to earlier versions of these songs available elsewhere, you can see how much they honed everything. The Specials had toured the U.K. supporting The Clash, and as a result you can hear more Clash-like-Grit on this album, and you can also see The Specials influence on Clash songs like Pressure Drop, very Ska.

I like everything about this album, every song. I still remember my high school English tutor in the 9th grade (I was really bad in school) who was more interested in shaping my musical tastes, and my sister, English was third on his list. He made me a tape of this album with the This Are Two Tone compilation on the second side. I listened to that tape for years, before they had tape-players that would flip the tape for you. I remember one time I accidentally hit "Record", so to this day I am surprised there is no gap at the beginning of "Concrete Jungle".

Not too long ago, I was invited to several Specials shows. My friend had gone to school with Mark Addams (keyboards) in Coventry and whenever they'd come to San Francisco my friend rob would arrange to have us on the list. They have altered the band since 1980 (when this album came out), a few new members, but they still have Neville Staples(who looks even cooler today), Horace Panter, Roddy Radiation, and Lynval Golding. They preformed these songs in a dizzying frenzy. After each show we'd go backstage with them (once to the Green-Room of the legendary Fillmore Auditorium!) and one time on their tour bus somewhere in Santa Cruz. My friends wife was blind, so she had a seeing-eye-Doberman with her. We were on this crowded bus, with the band, this huge dog and scattered other people. They were playing some old sixties Ska on the bus stereo, and Lynval Golding (guitarist) danced with the seeing-eye-dog, and I cracked a corny joke, which I began to regret as I was saying it. I said to Mr. Golding, "Do The Dog!" (referring to their song by the same name) then my ears began to turn red. He thought it was the funniest thing he'd ever heard and slapped his leg as he laughed. He put his rude-boy hat on my head, which was pathetically loose, and laughed his way to the ice-chest and he fetched two beers and brought one to me as his laughter died down. The joke seemed rather obvious to me. He took his hat back as he gave me the beer. It was all very weird.

Anyway, this is the album to have. I have many Specials albums, and would choose this one over all the rest, or any other Ska band, there is No Doubt about that. If you have never heard this album but are considering it, then trust the instincts that brought you this far and get it, if you remember this album from your youth but haven't gotten around to getting it on CD I suggest you drop everything and get it, and get Led Zeppelin IV another time. This album has aged very well.

awesome just awesome i mean fantastic even
this cd was great it was one of the best things ive heard in my entire life it was awesome just awesome you know the rest i love you specials you changed my life you know jerry dammers is the man with the amazing lyrics it just blew me away there awsome

Rock steady and rock solid
This album is permanently seared into my brain. I listened to this album too many times to even estimate, having discovered it in High School (when it came out - yes, I'm getting old), spun it endlessly in College, and have never really stopped listening to it. Now and then it kind of fades to the back of the old collection, but sounds as strong as ever every time I resurrect it from the stack. This is one of those albums that I've owned on vinyl, tape, CD and now resides in my Ipod. The infectious nature of this album is best related in a ridiculous story: We were on a business trip to make an advertising presentation for a client in Chicago about 5 years ago, My colleague and I both graduated college in the late 80's but we never really discussed music. While we were waiting to pitch our campaign outside the boardroom, we both noticed a framed 2-tone poster inside a nearby office. One by one we both ran through every song, every beat, every freestyle ranking from this album, each picking up seamlessly where the other would leave off. Sounds stupid, I know - but it's that kind of album. Just buy it - buy it now!

fantastic stuff
This is the best 2tone/ska album there is.Although the Specials introduced a raw,punky,English working class aspect to the ska sound, they retained much more of that original Jamican sound than any of the 3rd Wave American bands.The sounds of inner city England at the time were punk and reggae.The likes of Sex Pistols,The Clash along with reggae from the likes of Bob Marley and Dennis Brown were regularly in the top 5 in the UK charts.Unlike in the ghettoised projects in the United States,black and white working class kids in England shared the same housing estates and schools and so there were much greater opportunities for cultural hybrids.When punk appeared in 76 skinheads re emerged after disapearing from the scene for 5 years.The whole Specials idea was partly a calculated response by Jerry Dammers to remind the many skinheads who were flirting with nazism at the time that black cultural influences had been fundamental to the existence of the original skinhead movement.Anyhow it was a clever experiment that proved commercially succesful and this is an excellent album. ... Read more

Album Description

CD AUDIO SIDE: Entire Album

DVD SIDE: * Entire album in enhanced LPCM Stereo * Exclusive behind-the-scenes interview footage from the band’s 2003 tour * Discography ... 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

Reviews (20)

YOU NEEEEEED this album (and all other DHC albums)
i just discovered the dance hall crashers a few months ago...i bought their cd from recomendations made on this site--i hadn't heard anything by them before but i took a chance and bought this cd. within like a month i had ALL their cds and they are now my all time favorite band (as the owner of 400+ cds it really takes somethin for me to put it at the top of the list--especially so quickly) i cant begin to tell you how awesome this band is! they have the coolest lyrics and all their songs are uniquely different--(i hate when you get a cd and its good...but all the songs sound pretty much the same--not an issue with the DHC)

my fave songs: Mr. Blue, All Mine, Salted, Cold Shower.....aww forget it -- i love them all!

how bout a sample of the cool lyrics?
-"oh quit your whinin', it's so borin, play the victim, and keep my yawnin...."-Mr. Blue--great for if you're sick of listening to people complain

-"i wish i could tell you what i want from you, i would if i knew"-Cold Shower--great if you want somebody but you dont but you do and they want you but they dont yet they do....

-"i love to hear myself talk, im my own favorite audience, cuz im the funniest person i know...if you were me im sure youd agree"-The Truth About Me--heh heh...just a cool song

-"you're the one i've been waitin on, what took you, what took you so long, i'd just about givin up on this, oh yeah, oh yeah don't you wish, that you could go and forget about me, but that'd but that'd be too easy, better be ready to be only mine.."-All Mine--awesome song

i dont know why i chose those lyrics--just a tiny sample. dont think anymore just buy this--promise--its GREAT STUFF.

you like bad music?
then don't buy this cd! this cd is as good as it gets. Honey, I'm Homely goes above and beyond the 5 measly stars i rated it. i love every track on the cd, and personally think this is dhc's best album. although this one lacks the horns and such from The Old Record, the girls make up for it with their fantastic vocals. karina and elyse harmonize exceptionally well and makes all the songs come together perfectly. It has a great blend of slow songs (last laugh, next to you...) and faster, catchy tunes (lost again, all mine, over again...). there's such a variety in the songs that you can listen to the cd continuously without getting tired of it. there is no such thing as "over-playing" dhc, especially this cd. the songs are full of energy and make you feel bubbly all over. please buy this cd! support dhc! even my dog likes it.

Sweet CD :D
Ok, I've gotta be honest. When I first heard DHC, I HATED them. A friend of mine had been raving about them, and being curious, I downloaded a few songs. Of course I was expecting something entirely different from a "ska band." I was going to delete the files, but never got around to it, and so they stayed on my playlist. I heard them a few times amidst my punk and ska, and one day caught myself grooving with it and singing along. DHC has since become one of my all time favorite bands. I LOVE this CD. Give them a try, for sure. If you're expecting the usual ska or ska-punk, don't. DHC isn't it. But they've got a unique sound that works so well for them, along with great lyrics that just fit so perfectly. With "Lost Again" (one of my faves, and a big reason for purchasing this CD) to start it off, and one great song after another, you can't go wrong.

THIS CD IS DEF. WORTH THE MONEY
I BARELY GOT INTO DHC JUST BY LISTENING TO "LOST AGAIN" TRACK ONLINE AND I WENT TO BUY THE "HONEY IM HOMELY" CD AND THIS WHOLE CD IS WORTH THE MONEY. USUALLY U BUY A CD THAT HAS ONE OR TWO GOOD SONGS AND THE REST IS A DRAG- BUT NOT THIS CD. IT'S REALLY WORTH IT, SO IF U'RE DECIDING WHICH ALBUM TO GET, I SUGGEST THIS ONE.

DHC is the greatest skunk band around!
The moment you hear the two flawless voice of Elyse and Karina in "Lost again" you get the sense that you made a smart choice by purchasing this Cd. DHC has let the horn section go in this Cd but they still know how to get their fans skank'n!! With songs like "Whiskey and Gin" and "Mr. blue" you will find yourself tapp'n the beats and rock'n out. This is a little more on the punk side but still has those happy ska moments. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Awesome !!!!!
Music that transcends all!!!! Everyone hears this music and loves it right away.

Roots Ska down to the Beat
This CD is by far one of the greatest finds I have made--thanks to down loading music.

If you take your ska back to its roots, this is the album for you. In the vein of their modern peers, the Toasters, this Hepcat's album takes the ska sound back to the original 1950's and 60's rude boys of Jamaica. The Hepcats are true to their predecessors--the Skatalites, King Tubby, Desmond Decker, and others. This is not your neighbors ska-core, this is real island ska.

Buy it, you wont regret it.

One of the best old school ska albums out there
It's time that I make a verbose review for "Scientific", which I think is Hepcat's best album. The others are great as well, but Scientific is incredible.

Granted, they lost a great sax player in Dave Hillyard before making this album, but the remaining horn players (Efren, Raul and Kincaid) do an exceptional job in picking up the slack. Of course, what I love about Hepcat is their vocal harmonies, with Greg Lee, Alex Desert and Deston Berry doing their usual great job in creating great sounds. I think that overall Greg's songs are the most memorable, but perhaps my favorite song on the album is "Home", sung by Alex (of "Becker" fame(?)... is Alex still in the band? I hope so.).

Some other classics on this album are "Country Time", "Bobby & Joe", and "Relation". Despite the talent of the vocalists, Hepcat manages to sneak in a few excellent instrumentals, including "Dollar Dance", "Clarence" (which is also on their self-titled album on Moon Records), and "Yoko Zuna".

There have been many permutations, combinations and bastardizations in ska over the recent years. However, if you want to hear a new band put their twist on the old style of ska, pick up Scientific. Hepcat is one of the best "third wave" ska bands to recreate and redefine the old school sound.

Scientific Ska with soul
Once again, Hepcat follows trough with an album that follows the traditional sound of 60's ska with the right amount of jazz and soul. The smooth vocals of Lee and Barry blend well with a tight rhythm section and joyous horns. Tracks like the infectious "Bobby and Joe" provide a good counterpoint to slower and more contemplative tunes like "Solo". For those fans of jazz-like ska, try "Yokozuna" for a good listen. A great album, and one of the best ska albums in recent years.

Hepcat has done it again!
This is another great album,just like "out of nowhere" and "right on time". I have been a loyal fan of this group and take every opportunity I have to see them live.Not only is their music boss but they put on an awesome show.For all the fans out in Los Angeles who don't already know,they're playin at House of Blues on Jan.21'00 so don't miss it! ... Read more