Mustard Plug has established themselves as the kings
of American ska. In the time that this band has been
active ska has the flavor of the month and a minor
amusement as far as mainstream music is concerned.
Very few bands have stuck out the trends, and even
fewer have left the indellible mark on the scene that
Mustard Plug has. With their sixth full length "In
Black and White" Mustard Plug prove that they
have staying power and lasting appeal.
Why does Mustard Plug flourish where others fail?
Check out "Who Benefits?" as a prime example.
Mustard Plug mixes ska and punk seemlessly. Where
other bands in the genre use horns as hammers to say
"I'm ska and my brass section proves it"
Mustard Plug manages to integrate them in a way that
suits the songs well. "Copacetic" is another
great example. Mustard Plug uses classic sounds and
smart lyrics to a great affect. The real highlight
here may come with "Real Rat Bastard". This
song is so damn catchy there's no escape.
very few bands stand out in the current ska landscape.
Mustard Plug joins the ranks of long time favorites
like Less Than Jake, The Toasters and Reel Big Fish
as ska survivors. More to the point, Mustard Plug
are ska victors. "In Black and White" is
among the best work Mustard Plug has offered, and
an excellent addition to their catalog.
Key Tracks: "Real Rat Bastard", "Who
Benefits?"
Reviewed by Jim McDonald |
