Turn The Radio Off,
Reel Big FishWhat can you say about ska-punkers Reel Big Fish? With the biggest, brassiest and coolest sound this side of the Mad Caddies, Aaron and co have really put out some belters in their three album career. "Turn The Radio Off" is the LA seven's debut album and it is an absolute corker. Smile central, baby!
Kicking off with the anthemic 'Sell Out' it sets the tone for what is really an outstanding CD. What is so obvious, even from the beginning, is that this band are all about fun. With a huge brass section and cool ska riffs, plus good vocal talent from Scott and Aaron, you can see why RBF are one of the greatest live bands in the world ever.
"Everybody's doing the fish," or so say the band on 'Trendy'. Another madcap, fun song. "It's not so bad being trendy" apparently. Hmmm, not quite so sure about that guys. It's just a good job that the song is excellent. 'Join The Club' follows a similar lyrical line to many of the songs, focusing on teenage life, girls and starting bands. It starts off a bit slower, but give it a minute before the pace picks up. Then, enter Monique from Save Ferris for the skatastic 'She Has A Girlfriend Now'. The story of your girlfriend becoming a lesbian has never been funnier. I would say that it is a standout track, but to be honest, they're all standouts. I think you can probably sense where this review is going...
'Snoop Dog, Baby' is a weird little number, just like the band. Then RBF get all sensitive and doe-eyed with the amazing 'Beer'. This is a real anthem and a live fave. Without doubt the best song on the CD, and it is in some pretty illustrious company. '241' is an instrumental song, manic, crazy and typical RBF. 'Everything Sucks' has nothing to do with The Descendents. But it's still another anthem. And the video kicks ass too...
"What ever happened to Surburban Rythmn?" asks 'SR'. Who knows. But it doesn't stop this reggae-tinged track being very good. 'Skatanic' starts off all dirty and familiar sounding. Sounds very 80s ska actually. With some dodgy demonic laughing and vocals too. 'All I Want Is More' is another kick ass little number, with a cool trumpet intro. Then the guitars kick in, and I guarantee you'll be skanking across the room in no time. "Why can't she make up her fucking mind?" A good question, one that I'm sure every guy in the world has asked at some point in their life.
'Nothin' rules too. "I don't fucking care anymore." And neither do RBF. 'Say Ten' is all about vegeterians, and it's hillarious. 'I'll Never Be' is pure ska, and is another fantastic song. Cool saxophone solo too. Ending with 'Alternative Baby' you couldn't possibly wish for a happier close. To say this band rule is a big understatement.
If you're ever feeling down, stick this CD on. You'll be smiling and skanking within 3 minutes and 46 seconds...
Paul Savage
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