They’ve been quiet for a while – and half of their roster has left or split up – but Household Name are back, and back in fine style. There’s been a dearth of real quality ska records in recent years I feel – there was a time when I really loved ska and would quite happily crack open an old Less Than Jake record and enjoy a summer’s evening with a beer. But as ska became uncool again – and those UK acts who are/were influenced by the genre went on to create their own unique sounds – it seemed every group peddled out third-rate pub quality ska. The Planet Smashers, who originate from Quebec, smash that opinion with a record full of catchy songs that will have you skanking around the room in no time.
There are plenty of highlights here – Matt Collyer’s vocals sound a little like Aaron Barrett (of Reel Big Fish) at his absolute best, while the horns are used perfectly so it’s not overdone. It has a real relaxed summer feel to it, so it’s great to put on at a party or if you’re just lazing about after a hard day in the office. ‘Do No Wrong’ is a brilliant track, while ‘Unstoppable’ deserves a whole load of radio airplay for being such a catchy little bugger. There are even ‘celebrity’ appearances from the likes of Big D and The Kids Table (on the fantastic ‘Raise Your Glass’) and Bedouin Soundclash who guest on ‘Cool Your Jets’.
I don’t really need to say too much else, just recommend you get your paws on this album. For any ska fan it’s an absolute must, but for those of us once once hankered for bands like LTJ and RBF during their prime yet may have forgotten the glorious days of the upstroke, this is the ideal way to get back into the groove. Lovely stuff.
www.planetsmashers.net
Household Name Records
Paul