By MEGAN ELISON
With the recent national success of ska bands like the Mighty Mighty Bosstones and Royal Crown Revue, it seems only natural that Utah bands should join in the act. However, Utah bands have been with the program for over 10 years now.
Fortunately, their efforts have now been recognized and recorded on a double CD featuring a cornucopia of Utah styles.
“Send Help: The Utah Ska Compilation” (ABCD Records) is an excellent representation of the state’s ska music scene. In 38 tracks, the set explores the history of the Utah tradition, pitting old favorites against rare finds.
Disc one opens with a highlight of Utah’s first ska band, 004. In a light, but slightly cynical “I Don’t Love You,” 004 shows the world that ska isn’t just for East Coast audiences. And with the increasing rarity of recorded 004 tracks, this hit and its partner, “Brite Lite,” bring real class to the CD set.
The disc also features local favorites Swim Herschel Swim, Insatiable and Stretch.
Tracks from Swim Herschel Swim are geared toward a heavier sound. With strong guitar riffs, the rarely-played “Officer Friendly” and “Nice Guy” bring a sense of the punk-ska sound that is so much a part of the new style.
Also in typical punk ska-fashion, Stretch’s “Big Hair” and “Mr. DNA” show the toughness and in-your-face attitude that make the band’s music so danceable.
Lesser known names also contribute effectively to the overall success of the compilation album.
Rhythm Fish and Shriners are evidence of the more traditional ska sound that is making a comeback. Four lively tracks from these two bands bring the first disc of the set to a pleasant finish.
An unexpected high point of the first disc is Nectar’s “Happy Now.” A relaxed, wandering main verse and a hard-hitting rap bridge make the song a quick favorite, while lyrics referencing Winnie the Pooh are sure to bring a smile.
Disc two of the set also opens well, with two songs from local favorites My Man Friday. Standards “Sassy Girl” and “No Excuses” are a wonderful introduction to the growing ska music scene. A strong horn section and clear vocals help My Man Friday succeed as Provo’s premier ska band.
Other favorites include hits by Sturgeon General and the Pastry Bandits. In fact, Pastry Bandits’ straight instrumental songs give a better look at real ska than many spin-off styles floating around the nation.
One such style is set forth in Catfishe’s “American Rastaman.” This song’s harder sound is reminiscent of the Beastie Boys in places, giving it a catchy, permeating feel.
Creative lyrics particularly aid band contributions to the disc set. Go-Go 13’s “Idiot Box” explores the dangers of watching too much television, while “Silly Putty Girl” from Sam I Am puts an interesting twist on the often overdone topic of relationships.
Nostalgia follows Mr. Goon’s song “Transformers,” which elaborates on the ’80s cartoon theme song. Just hearing the words “robots in disguise” again invokes a feeling of approval.
A final highlight of the second disc comes from Id and the Superegos. “Fire Station” and “Can Opener” are great additions to the album’s wide variety of styles.
Overall, the double-disc set is a fantastic overview of Utah ska. By including quality lesser-known bands with state favorites, the CD succeeds in giving new audiences a taste of the growing scene.
“Send Help: The Utah Ska Compilation” is available in most area CD stores.
