Streetlight Manifest – 99 Songs of A Revolution

First announced back in 2008, 99 Song of A Revolution now has a firm release date on Victory Records. March 16th is the day to look forward to. Currently there is no album artwork but I’m sure we’ll be seeing some soon. Currently at this time I am not seeing a track list or very much else in the way of details either. When I see something more I’ll be sure to post something up. Otherwise, if you are as anxious as me for this album you can pre-order it for $12.98 on Victory’s web site.

The Specials – Back Together

First of all, I know I’ve been a little slacking around here lately, unfortunately I’ve had a few things going on that have taken me away from CS more than I’d like. Things are looking like I should be back to it again pretty soon and hopefully I’ll be able to keep things going at a better pace than before even. Until then…

I am really excited about The Specials playing again and I really can’t wait to see them. If you didn’t hear, yes they are back and playing shows. I’ve seen a couple notes about a couple shows in the states but I haven’t seen any talk of a full tour yet. I have already decided I will be attending at least one of these shows and buying tickets as soon as they are available. In recognition of this awesome event (I never thought I’d get the chance to see The Specials live) here are a couple videos to hopefully hold us over…

Music For Dancers And Lovers!

I really had a great Skacation in California back in November and one of the things we did out there was stop by Amoeba Records, I loved this store. One of the great things about this place was that they actually had a section for ska. I was like a kid in a candy store looking at all the CDs they had, I spent forever looking at all my options until I finally had to walk away before I bought everything I didn’t own. Eventually I went back and just grabbed a couple that called out to me.

What does all that have to do with anything? One of those CDs that called out to me was Babylove and the Van Dangos Run Run Rudie and I absolutely LOVE that album. The first song is “Jump N Swing N Sway” which is going on about enjoying your life and when you’re feelin’ a little down you gotta dance your troubles away, it’s got a great beat and just puts you in an awesome feel good mood like any good ska song should. I don’t want to do a review on this album today but yes, Run Run Rudie is well worth a purchase [you can buy it at CDBaby]. You won’t be disappointed.

And although I really don’t want to do a review on the album, I’m listening to it now and I want to add a short bit on it. It’s got 17 tracks [including 1 live and 2 acoustic] and I pretty much love every one. A lot of the songs switch between a quick upbeat ska style and a slowed down rocksteady beats. The way everything flows together is just super smooth on your ears and every song has a beat that just hypnotizes you into dancing without even noticing it. Long and short, it’s one of my top album purchases of 2009.

Babylove and the van Dangos are from Denmark and were formed in 2004. Since then they have toured across Scandinavia, Europe, and even Japan. BvD has also worked with some big names such Doreen Shaffer from the Skatalites and Coolie Ranx from the Toasters. Just recently Chris Murray even joined them for a tour in Europe. As of now they have 2 albums released in the US, Run Run Rudie (Megalith Records, 2006) and Lovers Choice (Megalith Records, 2008) with hopefully a 3rd coming soon. Check out the below videos of 2 of my favorite songs by BvD.

Jump ‘N Swing ‘N Sway

Rudeboy [Also with a Danish Birthday song in the middle]

Ska, Reggae, or Rocksteady?

While browsing through Youtube I found this little clip of Bob Marley being interviewed and talking about the difference between Ska, Reggae, and Rocksteady. I have no idea where this clip is originally from but would love to see the rest of it if anybody else happens to know.

Check it out!

3, 2, 1, and go!

I’m a little behind on this but the announcement has been made, The Rise And Fall of Five Iron Frenzy will be released on 3,2,1,0 [3/2/10]. I’m pretty stoked about this and can’t wait to pick it up. More R&FoFIF news to follow another day, until then…

Reel Big News!

If you haven’t heard there is all sorts of new Reel Big Fish news lately, instead of putting each little bit up you’re getting everything here and now, in one post.

First thing up, yes. Reel Big Fish is working on a new album due out summer 2010. Currently there are no other details out, no name, previews, and no exact date. When that gets released I’ll be sure to let you know.

Until then, Reel Big Fish is getting ready to do 3 “Winter Informal” holiday shows in Southern California. Dates are Dec 27th-29th in Hollywood, Anaheim, and San Diego. Following the “Winter Informal” they will be doing a handful of shows in OR, WA, ID, UT and NV. Following that, they will be leaving the states for an overseas tour for the rest of January. For more information on shows and dates check out the calendar on their MySpace.

Lastly, my favorite bit of recent RBF news is the Reel Big Fish shoe! Just recently released it is pretty sweet. If I weren’t so partial to my chucks I would definitely buy a pair (although I’m still tempted). If this is your sorta thing you can order it online at LoudMusic.com, they have a trumpet style and a monkey style! Both are pretty sweet.