For not being a ska fan, I really enjoyed this CD. The Pietasters play traditional sounding ska with a couple of punk songs thrown in for good measure. The songs are written and arranged very well (even the reggae influenced songs are performed with minimum cheesiness). The only thing that bothered me from time to time was the singer's voice which sounds like the singer for Smashmouth (but with a better vocal range). However, his vocals are still way better than your average ska singer. This is a quality ska release and is definitely worth checking out.
B+
Other coverage for this album
Decapolis 1999Reviewed by ConradThe Pietasters have been around for a while and it shows. Their songs have so many layers and parts - it sounds like it could have been arranged by a professional late-night talk-show band. I have nothing but respect for their musicianship and direction of music. Their brand of ska is more traditional and laid back, which is a huge asset. In the midst of the zillion ska wanna-be bands out there -…Decapolis 1999Reviewed by TimI have never been a really big fan of the Pietasters, but for them, this album is good. It is much better than any of their other stuff that I have heard. So if you are already a fan, you will like this. If you're not already a fan - chances are you will probably like this too. B-Decapolis 1999Reviewed by Tom BastianThe Pietasters are definitely one of the leaders in the Ska scene of the 90's. They are fun, full of soul, and are definitely a quality band. On this new CD it's not just straight up ska (if there is such a thing). Influences range from Reggae, Punk, Pop, and of course Ska. The general feel I got from this CD is that, as hinted at in the CD title, this CD will make the perfect dance party CD. Not…Decapolis 1999Reviewed by Matt AI've never been a huge fan of ska (with a few exceptions), but when it's done well I can stand it for a while. The Pietasters probably do ska better than anyone out there, and they've been doing it for a while. This is a very strong release from a very talented band. If you like ska at all you should really pick this one up. B+Similar sounding releases
1996Five Iron FrenzyUpbeats and Beatdowns
1999The SkadaddlesThanks For Laughing
1998The DingeesArmageddon Massive
1999The O.C. SupertonesChase the Sun
1998The InsyderzSkalleluia!
1998Big Dog Small FenceBig Dog Small Fence
