Record Label: Kick Save Records
Genre: Ska
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This is definitely not something you hear every day. In fact, I can’t remember the last time I heard excellent, new ska.

This debut from these Kansas musicians is bursting with amazing, smooth roots ska and reggae. The horn section is obviously jazz-trained; the range and versatility is remarkable. The rhythm section is top-notch, and the Hammond organ is crisp and terrific. The clean production itself is fantastic, as is the tight musicianship and songwriting.

Their sound is laid-back roots with even more laid-back jazz undertones. I would make comparisons to the Skatalites (especially with the Jackie Mittoo-esque keyboard work), but The Secondhands stand tall on their own. (Which makes the fact that this is their DEBUT album all the more astounding!)

If you’re like me and highly critical (if not utterly dismissive) of new ska music, get this album. It will make you a fan again. This is by far one of the best ska releases of this year.

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