Mighty Mighty Bosstones
Pay Attention
- Island
It's true that their furious brand of ska-punk can be about as subtle as a flying brick.
But the Mighty Mighty Bosstones have always been a terrifically talented band, and on this, their sixth studio set, they've finally put their best face forward.
In keeping with tradition, Pay Attention features plenty of the party-hearty rave-ups that the Boston-based group has been synonymous with since its start. With horns pumping and drums pounding, they come out full throttle on raucous tracks like "Let Me Be," "The Skeleton Song," and "High School Dance." Yet they temper the wildness with keen melodic sensibilities, provocative lyrics and innovative arrangements that all contribute to the disc's somewhat shocking sense of maturity.
Fans need not worry that the Bosstones are getting stodgy, as there are plenty enough cuts to keep frat houses cooking 'til dawn. But this time out the band is banking on more than just the frenzy and fire. The 'Tones deliver some major melodies on songs that include the harmony-filled liars' tale "All Things Considered" and the rockabilly-flavored history lesson "Riot on Broad Street."
The Bosstones can be predictable, but more often than not, they offer just enough twists and turns to make Pay Attention consistently invigorating.
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