In the 90's, Reel Big Fish was without a doubt one of the most well known ska bands in the biz. Their high intensity shows and catchy music set the bar for most bands out there. They were turning out albums like every other struggling musician, but their big break came when they appeared in the movie Baseketball with Matt Stone and Trey Parker, where they performed "Take On Me."
I grew up listening to Reel Big Fish albums, and it was their music that turned me on to Ska. Being the geeky band kid playing the saxophone in high school was not my ideal social path, but this music allowed me to "rebel" against the stereotypical assumptions that come with playing a classical instrument, and put a somewhat cooler spin on my reputation.
Enough about me, though, when it comes to which Reel Big Fish albums you should listen to, here's a quick run down of my two personal favorites:
1. Everything Sucks (1995, re-released in 2000)
The bands first full length album and an essential for any ska-lover. Yes, the quality of some of the recordings are lack luster, but they make up for it with their intricate horn lines and (to say the least) aggressive lyrics. Even though it is not their best stuff and was written when the band was still maturing, it gives you insight into their personality and how f***ing crazy they were. A must listen to!
2. Why Do They Rock So Hard? (1998)
It is Reel Big Fish's second ska album and third full length. You can tell they grew not only in their musical talents, but they obviously had a good producer behind them. It is personally up there as my #1 because it is amazing how they stayed consistent with their image after all those years and kept my head banging the whole time. Favorite track: "I Want Your Girlfriend To Be My Girlfriend."
People often argue that there are much better ska bands out there, and maybe there are. But Reel Big Fish did it for me. They pretty much defined my high school years, and there's no denying that when "Beer" comes on the radio, or your iPod, or wherever...you still sing along too!
Whether you agree with my picks for the top Reel Big Fish albums or not, there is no disputing that they set the bar for the ska bands that came after them.
If you like Reel Big Fish then you might also check out Urkel & The Winslows. Their high energy music, along with their 3-part horn harmonies compare to the personality of RBF, while still creating an identity of their own. But who am I...check it out for yourself:
Click here to download a copy of their latest single for free.
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