No Regime is a four piece punk-reggae hybrid out of Los Angeles. They’re been a round for a few short years, but have really only hit the radar of most (myself included) because of their latest self titled EP. The band’s mission seems to be blending Sublime-esque vocals and reggae fueled moments with instances of crashing – just shy of thrashing – punk craziness. Personally, I’m not completely sold yet, and I think the band needs a little work finding their sweet spot with regards to the balance between their influences, but a lot of good has been said about the band, and there’s certainly a lot of promise within (My review is forthcoming). But don’t take my word, check it out for yourself, the band has uploaded the entire EP as a free download over on Last.fm.
This is a really solid example of indie and ska coming together in harmony. Sometimes they just beg for a Sublime comparison, other times, they go after something entirely their own (well, RX Bandits might be a good comparison). In any case, I’ve been listening to this album in the background for quite some time now, and I just don’t want it to end… Really catchy and socially aware alt/indie.
Maybe I was a bit brash with my last ska related conclusion that North American Ska died after the 90′s. Readers like Susan and Carlos point out that Streetlight Manifesto and Catch 22 rose to fame over the past decade and it’s true, if you dig deep enough you can uncover some really great recent innovation in the genre. Keasbey Nights, for example, took over my playlists for years. But at the same time, those are exceptions to the rule, even in the underground. Gone are the days of finding a million Reel Big Fish clones on Moon Ska Records (which depending on who you are, might be for the better). Consequently you’re much more likely to stumble upon ska groups like Germany’s Dirty Bees overseas than back at home. Anyway, tangent aside, Dirty Bees are a fantastic street punk inspired ska group with a tight brass section and sloppy vocalist making for an undeniably fun time.
Posted February 27th, 2010 by Cole Faulkner in Ska | 3 comments
People say ska died after the 90′s, but that needs a little clarification: North American ska died after the 90′s. Cross the Atlantic and you’ll find a world where ska has remained relevant and innovative to the present. The Sovereigns’ free album, pick it up, helps prove that point. Check it out. Pick it up.
Europe seems to be the last real holdout for finding interesting new third wave ska bands. Better still, many of them like Boxing Fox release excellent recordings for free on the internet. The Sheperd Hates Us is a collection of bouncy ska that your older brother probably listened to way back in high school. It’s fun, it’s lively, it’s third wave ska. Nuff said.
Jamendo tags this album as “skatecore,” and I have to say I’m in complete agreeance. Part hardcore-punk and part skatepunk, Twiggy’s free EP is quite the fifteen minute ride. Fans of rough skatepunk should take notice.
The oddly named Monica’s Lips plays a bouncy brand of ska punk with a modern edge. They’re refreshingly relevant for a ska band and retain their composure despite their silly Nicola Sarcevic-like vocals (They’re from Finland). Good stuff overall.
Good old fashioned ska punk right out of europe. These guys aren’t spectacular, but they do experiment with a nice range of ska related genres and come up with some genuinely interesting arrangements. Songs like “Politicians” offer some great acoustic sections, while others like “Suzie Blue” showcase their more creative side, creating a very 1950s sound. There’s even a little jazz and swing thrown into the mix for good measure. At the very least it’ll put you in a good mood.
Download the Album From The Band’s Last.fm
