Record Label: Do the Dog Music
Genre: Ska/Reggae
Band Link: link
Buy on Amazon.com
Ah yes, another fine release from that mangy mutt from across the pond. This time, Four O provides the soundtrack for a supersonic ska experience with their new release “Across the Borderline”. I know, I know…Willie Nelson used this album name years ago but if you knew that, then you probably shouldn’t be reading a ska review.
Four O remind me a lot of Bedouin Soundclash. There is a roots rock feel that is overshadowed by the strong presence of the dub-style reggae. The vocals could merit comparisons to the Pharmaceutical Bandits and you could even draw some style comparisons to the Hotknives. But even with all of the comparisons, Four O brings a unique ska/reggae style to the table. The one thing that stands out the most would have to be the interesting and unique guitar work on “Across the Borderline”. One song in particular that comes to mind is “Just For Fun”. The song kicks off with what sounds like a hybrid steel stringed guitar/ukulele that makes the song very catchy in a hum-able kind of way while “Borderline” could be described as a borderline Police song with a guitar sound that slides in and out of consciousness.
“Borderline” is also a fine example of the great songwriting of Four O. With a message of no more war and of stopping hate and the teaching of hate passed down from generation to generation, the song is both political as well as social. Not only is Four O’s sound diverse, but so are their lyrics. Along with politically charged songs such as “Borderline” and “Broken Springs” the band also likes to have fun with “Come On Summer”, an upbeat, Caribbean-flavored tune about the welcome feeling of the Summer months.
Overall, I was thoroughly impressed with just about every aspect of “Across the Borderline”. There were so many different musical genres that were represented in what can’t be considered “just another ska album”. If you’re looking for fun, variety and diversity wrapped up in one little compact disc, than “Across the Borderline” has your name written all over it.
Bottom Line: A diverse collection of ska-tinged tunes by a band with great songs and even better songwriting.
Notable Tracks: Just For Fun, Borderline, Fight For Life, Broken Springs
Overall Rating: