Are you in need of proof that Ska is in fact not yet dead? Look no further than the debut from Montreal band Stepper. The best way to in fact prove that a genre still has life is to not be ashamed of your influences and to simply do it well. Stepper? Check.
Recorded at Blackbird Studios in Nashville under the guidance of Grammy award winning producer George Massenburg, Way Out is filled with upbeat(obviously) tunes that are tight and well crafted. It’s a fun album to listen to especially if you happened to be a fan of 3rd wave ska music from its late 90’s heyday and will definitely leave you humming certain melodies long after you stop listening. Numerous songs feature a harder rock edge which is a welcomed addition to the sound and should quickly remind you of Reel Big Fish. Inspired guitar playing, tight horn lines and 3 different vocalists taking turns at the mic keep the entire album fresh and unpredictable. Standout tunes include “Turn Up Your Soundsystem”, “Running From Home” and “Bring Us Together”. Ska may not be as popular as it once was but who gives a shit when the tunes are good right? Exactly.
Stepper hits the road this summer for short tour, be sure to keep an eye out and catch up with them online:
http://www.myspace.com/steppermusic
Check out the band in the studio recording “Running From Home”:
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