Since forming in New York City 30 years, The Toasters have had quite a career.  They were one of the pioneers of third-wave ska, taking inspiration from groups like The Specials as well as the Ramones. Their song "Don't Let The Bastards Grind You Down" appeared on MTV's short-lived-but-brilliant animated series Mission Hill, and they also appeared on the Nickelodeon favorite Kablam. The band was certainly an influence on 90's ska groups like Less Than Jake and Reel Big Fish. Tonight, the band heads to Mohawk Place. The show starts at 6pm, and tickets are $15. The show is 16 and older.

What do you think when you think of Ska?  I can tell you what I picture; 15 year olds in stupid clothes getting wacky on the dance floor to goofball music.  It wasn't always this way.  Until the mid-90's came and pooed on the genre, Ska was a fiercely respected form of music, tracing its roots to the reggae, dub and punk movements of yesteryear.  Unfortunately. it has developed a pretty bad reputation over the years and is certainly on most peoples "disposable" lists.  The sad thing is is that there are still GOOD ska bands, and some are even GREAT.  File the Toasters in that last category.  As part of the third wave of American Ska (yes, ska has history too!), the Toasters have always been one of the tightest bands in the genre.  They sit next to Ska greats like Madness, the Specials and the Slackers as being respected musicians, but also creators of some of the catchiest music on planet earth.  Since forming in 1981, they have released nine studio albums and have had their songs appear in commercials and on TV shows.  Their also really great to dance to.  It's been awhile since you broke out your skankin' shoes, so go to Mohawk tonight (6pm) and dance the night away.  The shows $13 and that also gets you four openers; the Crack Horse, Lightning Killed my Parents, Fleet Street and Wild Card.


The Toasters : 2Tone Army by Megalith Records