Review of Keasbey Nights (Streetlight Manifesto)

Keasbey Nights is a re-recording of an album by the same name by Catch 22. Tomas Kalnoky (Guitar, Vocals, Mixing, etc. etc...), formerly of Catch 22, was responsible for all the writing -- both lyrics and music -- for the original and this re-recording. He is backed by Jim Conti (Tenor Sax), James Egan (Trumpet, Background Vocals), Chris Paszik (Bass, Background Vocals), Dan Ross (Alto Sax, Baritone Sax), Mike Soprano (Trombone), and Chris Thatcher (Drums). Though chronologically second, this album is often not counted when ordering the band's official releases, because it is a re-recording.

In case you didn't figure it out from the massive number of people and brass instruments, this album is a third-wave Ska, released in 2006. It features much more skilled musicianship than the original Catch 22 recording. If you like Ska, this album is a huge treat with a never-ending run of brass solos that would rival the greats. The song "Walking Away" features a horn battle that showcases the talents of the musicians, if you're as interested by that as I am.

The other thing I really love about this album is the gangster feel about it. I'll say that again: "Gangster", not "Gangsta". Songs like "9mm And A Three Piece Suit" and the title track really give off the impression of the mob, and it's an oddly enjoyable feeling. My favourite lyric on the album is "Jack dropped 21, Jill 22, the look in his eye said 'Brother, what you gonna do, with a nine-milimetre and a three piece suit?'"

Negatively, this album has a couple songs that are not done as well, "Giving Up, Giving In" is rather uninteresting, and the half-screaming vocalist does not impress. "As The Footsteps Die Out Forever" suffers from a similar issue.

If you don't like Ska, or don't know what I'm talking about, this album is a pretty good one to wet your feet on. It's very standard ska fare done uncommonly well. I'll be honest, I enjoy listening to it in part despite the ordinary nature of the music itself, but that's Ska. It's jumpy and fun, and that's why you should listen to it.