The Up and Coming Ska Bands

This is our take on the up and coming ska bands in 1997

1997

First off I want to say respect to the NYC scene for supporting everything about the scene.

There have been a lot of new ska bands sprouting up all around us the past few years. All of them original, and all of them good (in hindsight, that's a stretch). Let's start off close to home.

New Jersey's favorite sons, Inspecter 7, are waiting on the release of their debut album. For a long time they went un-noticed. Now they are receiving the respect they deserve. The vast differences in the two singers and the killer rhythm and horn sections are what make this band extra powerful on stage. Their live show is a must and what they have released so far, a 7" on Moon records, is an excellent example of their skill. There is no doubt that they will be very prominent figures in the ska scene once their album is released.

Speaking of aggressive ska, it would also be good to mention the Skoidats from Montana. The Skoidats' music is a blend of Oi and Ska which results in a loud, exciting show. Their new album on Moon Ska Records called "the Times" has catchy songs and it just gets you riled up, just like Inspecter 7. Speaking of which, I hear they are on tour together. Go see them.

Last but not least is a band from Baltimore called the Smooths. The Smooths released their debut CD, "Very Own Vegas", by themselves and then proceeded to release a 7" called "Kiss the Carnage". The CD is fast paced and hard hitting. The ska is smooth and the (I hesitate to use this word) core is crisp and very arousing. The smooths will be re-releasing the CD soon, with help from 22 Jacks. Go get it, you'll like it.

Any other bands we should know about? Write us.