Search - Big D and the Kids Table :: Fluent In Stroll

Doped Up and On A One Way Ticket to Blood...

Sircomix | Boston MA, USA | 07/14/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"For those expecting a straight punk or ska album, you won't find it here. While Big D usually keeps one foot firmly in the land of ska, they also continue to grow and develop, musically, lyrically, and stylistically. This new record, in the style they dub "stroll," takes elements not only from classic reggae, but also from soul music, double-dutch, 50's tunes, rock, jazz and more, creating a perfectly balanced and fun summer album, with hints of true lyric intelligence sprinkled throughout. It features the Doped Up Dollies, some smooth girl singers whose backup vocals are prevalent, and amusing, often thoughtful lyrical strands from lead Dave McWane. Surprisingly deft piano figures from usual guitarist Sean P Rogan bolster some tracks, as do surly horn lines and growling, funky bass lines. (Dana Colley of Morphine supplies some bass sax parts). The guys know how to build a song, and clearly were well-guided by producer (and Bosstones bassist) Joe Gittleman. Some tunes sound like gritty go-go numbers dipped in whiskey (Doped Up Dollies), some are summery love songs(Describing The Sky), and some actually reminded me a bit of the Stone's classic album "Exile On Main Street" (We Can Live Anywhere), with an almost bluesy tinge. Indeed, the best songs on the record are, in my opinion, the ones least like the band's previous work.



If you are a young kid who gets angry when your bands experiment with different styles, or you think they are 'selling out' when they do something new, this is probably not for you. Come back and check it after you've grown up a bit. Big D is obviously playing what they feel, and you feel it yourself when listneing. The band is not adhering to some formula in a mission to replicate the success of past albums; it's not the aggressive punk music of the band's early years. But if you like a good skank, and you are open to Big D sharing their newest vibes with you this summer, this is a good CD to pick up. It's in heavy rotation this summer for me!"

They've done it again...

Rachel A. Benson | 07/15/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"It's not punk, it's not exactly ska, but it's Big D and they kept the horn section! ;)



This album has not left my stereo since I bought it last week on the release date. I can't get enough of it! :D



I love the sound, I love the optimism, the Doped Up Dollies are a nice addition, and Dave's lyrics are great as always. Regardless of sound I love Dave's lyrics.



Yeah yeah yeah I know some people are bashing this album because "OMG Big D changed their sound!!!!" - but it's still them! And they didn't completely ditch the horn section like other ska bands have done! They're still rocking and I'm happy with the new direction. :)"

A masterpiece

David Bridgeland | Sterling, VA USA | 08/17/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I have liked Big D ever since I heard their cover of the Specials' classic "Little Bitch". LA X is a great song. So is "Noise Complaint". But this album is far better than their previous work. It is a masterpiece, their ".. And Out Come the Wolves", their "Joshua Tree", their "Born to Run". Buy it now."