By 2010, the third-wave ska movement had pretty much run out of steam. So it was a nice surprise when the Kujo Kings emerged to keep flying the flag. This is their debut EP.
Unusually, the Kujo Kings horn section horn section includes a flute. It seems an odd choice on paper, but in this case it works brilliantly to cut through the other instruments and adds a nice unique touch. More flutes for ska bands, I say!
Anyway, Brain Food features nicely silly lyrics and some great catchy melodies. Unfortunately, there's a fair bit of sub-par musicianship and overall arrangement is a bit of a dog's breakfast. Although one might argue that these elements are inconsequential for a ska band, Brain Food isn't really one of the band's better efforts.
Met Pigs brings it all together brilliantly. The silly story, great tongue-in-cheek headbanging and syrupy smooth ska are particular highlights. I also really dig the backing horns lines towards end of verses, they lead in to the verses very nicely. Speaking of structure, the way it winds up from reggae to ska to the punk chorus is fantastic.
Senile Delinquents follows the same formula of catchy tongue-in-cheek goodness. It jumps all over the place, often awkwardly, but for me that's somehow part of the appeal.
Behold the main lyrics of Monkey Island:
Marooned on an island, I don't know what to do.
Surrounded by monkeys who throw their own poo.
Marooned on an island, I don't know what to do.
Surrounded by monkeys who throw their own poo.
That's poetic genius right there, folks! Coupled with highly energetic and catchy instrumentals, it makes for hilariously fun chaos.
The Chase is musically as good as the other songs, but lacks the lyrical silliness to make it enjoyable for me. On the other hand, LAN Party brings together silly feel-good ska with with retro videogames. A perfect combination!
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