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Fishbone mapping is used to show the casual interaction of a complex event or phenomenon. Based on that definition this band chose an appropriate name, although not for that reason. Fishbone is best known for frantic, powerful, and irreverent live shows where the unexpected is always possible. This self-titled debut EP just about exemplifies what the band is known for. It has been almost twenty years since I first heard “Fishbone,” so I have slowed down significantly, fortunately the band and their front man Angelo Moore haven’t. Blending ska, funk, r&b, rock, reggae, and punk is no easy task. U.G.L.Y. manages to integrate some powerful socio-political criticism with horns and a slam dance, almost swing-style rhythm. ?(Modern Industry) is a tribute to independent radio around the world. In a fast-talking, techno whirl the band goes through several time changes and still comes out tight. Party At Ground Zero is their best known kick-ass song. Not just a party song, this one requires several listens to take in all its lyrical satire. The words are truly a testament to the ‘80s and even today. At the time it was playing there was no actual ground zero, but many of the sentiments have remained the same. I guess the main difference is that today Fishbone could get in big trouble for playing it – the words would go over the heads of most people. Irregardless, it is one of the best dance songs there is, wack-a-do, wack-a-do, wack-a-do! V.T.T.L.O.T.F.D.G.F stands that social commentary thing on its head (for those who are still guessing its Voyage To The Land Of The Freeze Dried Godzilla Fart). A frenzied interpretation of the state of the times this one just plain screams for the listener’s attention without preaching or lecturing. I have heard that Moore does some spoken word stuff and that seems understandable. If you listen closely you can literally hear poetry in motion. If you were to remove the music you would have some pretty intense words leftover. Lyin' Ass Bitch is just plain fun. I never really ever heard of any feminists getting pissed about this song, guess they know a joke when they hear one (maybe). The expressions are clever and funny with some more of that raunchy Fishbone humor mixed in. This EP and a some subsequent Fishbone albums were ahead of their time. The more I listen to this band the more I think they may still be ahead of our time, too. The Red Hot Chili Peppers started out at about the same time as Fishbone but managed to garner a lot more attention and “popular” success. The band doesn’t seem to care, relishing the live side of the business. Fishbone has undergone several member changes over the years and yet retain a loyal if not mega-star following around the world. I think perhaps ‘The Bone may be over the heads of many mainstream music listeners anyway. Artists such as The Mighty Mighty Bosstones, No Doubt, and even the ‘Peppers themselves have been influenced by Fishbone. If you know this band you didn’t even need to read this far, but if you don’t, get to your favorite source for music ‘cause you have missed something big. Central New York’s own Savage Sarge (and my personal idol) got to attend a Fishbone concert at The Haunt in Ithaca. You can click here to read his article. The Fishbone Sony “Official” site below works sporadically, but not to worry; there is an exceptional unofficial, fan site that has more passion than a label would anyway. |
Regressive Music Review