Late in high school, and through most of my college career I listened to a lot of Ska. I was a major fan of Catch 22, Streetlight Manifesto, Reel Big Fish, Big D, Might Mighty Bosstones, particularly during the spring and summer months. I've always been a sucker for great brass sections, and these bands had them in spades. So, I was more than in my element when I came across The Cat Empire.
I should be clear that the band is not a ska band per se, although the elements are all there. Fast tempos, dancey beats, great brass, and reggae/hip hop roots. What sets Cat Empire apart is how many influences come through in the music. A single song may contain elements of salsa, swing, jazz, rock, blues. Lyrically, the songs can take you from the very funny story of a slacker's coming of age, as in "The Car Song", the calmly rebellious ode to friendship that is "chariot", the upbeat and slightly nihilistic "Protons, Neutrons and Electrons," or the extremely fun and sexy, as in "The Rhythm."
The vocals come from band mates Felix Riebl, who possesses a smooth and relaxed voice that has the effect of sounding consistently, although amiable, stoned, and Harry Angus, who sings in a strange nasal tone more often associated with hair metal, but nevertheless manages to deliver affecting performances throughout the album. On piano is the talented Ollie McGill, jazz pianist who gives us some of the best solos on the album.
The band is gaining quite a bit of notoriety through word of mouth, and I hope this particular word will encourage you to buy the album. It's the most fun, entertaining and original work that I've heard since discovering Ska was a thing. No joke.
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