Most live albums do not pack the punch of something made in a studio. However, listening to past hits, ”She’s Famous Now” and ”I Want your Girlfriend to be my Girlfriend Too”, made me see that RBF is not only an excellent band, but they are one that every ska fan should see live at least once. Until you can make that happen, I highly recommend this CD.
The very best moment occurs at the end of disc one with the song, “S.R (the many versions of) ”. S.R. stands for Suburban Rhythm and has been a fan favorite for years. This version is a whopping ten minutes where in truly live fashion they decide that every version of S.R. is going to be better than the last. They start with ska and move through styles such as Death metal, Emo, Country, Punk Rock, Disco, Blues, and Run DMC style rap. It is the best moment on the CD not only for the hilarious antics that are shown. but to show the versatility and talent of the band.
Of course, in all fairness a fan of the band will be hard pressed to find a bad part of these CDs. The music is excellent as is the quality. It really gives you the feeling that you’re right there in the middle of the concerts were the music was taped.
In addition to the CDs, an added DVD has been thrown in with some special features and 20 live songs. The live songs on the DVD were filmed during a show held earlier in 2006. Songs on the DVD include “Snoop Dog, Baby”, “Sell Out”, “Take on Me”, “She has a Girlfriend Now”, and “Everything Sucks”. The special features include a photo gallery, interviews with the band, and footage of the band practicing.
If you are a ska fan, you need to check out this CD. It will likely become one of your favorites, as it has mine. If you do not know anything about ska, check out the Reel Big Fish. They are entertaining, original, and well worth the listen.
Article comments
1 - Connie Phillips
This article has been placed at the Advance.net websites, a site affiliated with about 12 newspapers.
One such site is here.
2 - Dominick Evans
Thanks so much! I want to give credit where credits is due. Ashtyn & I write all our reviews together...so she's as much responsible for this review as I am.
-Dominick
3 - Dominick Evans
errr - credit is due not credits is due!
I noticed we're on MLive. That is where we get our news here in Michigan so that's cool!