The CD starts out with "Investigators (Eight Great Sages)". The horns come out blaring, playing something reminiscent of "Pink Panther". Soon the drums come in and keep the beat perfectly, while the guitar bounces its way through the song, forcing you to dance. Lightning strikes more than once as the vocals cruise through the song with a strong punk resemblance. But the music never lets you down. From start to finish they keep you dancing at a motor like pace. "Evil Twin" continues with some more tasty ska. The upbeat is played with great precision, while the horn lines soothe the soul and give you more energy to continue on skanking. The vocals are a bit slower this time through, but they are still fast. After only two songs (if that much), you'll already be hooked on this band. "Atomic Cafe" is a political song about the use of nuclear weapons, and why we should stop using them! The song isn't preachy, and it doesn't alienate its listeners. It gets across its point, and gives you some great beats to go along with it. Skank along to the song, or sit back and listen to the words. If you want to absorb something from the song, you can. If not, you can go on and continue to have fun! Either way, this song will give you something that you desire. "Spending the Night" is an album stand out. A sing-along, dance-along track that will get you jumping across while screaming out the lyrics. The keyboards add a lot of depth to the song, while the rest of the band keeps it soft but exciting. Take a break during this song, because you know they're going to pick it back up really soon. "Let Her Know" is The Investigators take on traditional ska. Heavily rooted in traditional material, they add a kick to the beats. They keep it very soulful, and packed with energy. Another great song to just swing and sway along with. "Mass-Ska-Raid" is another feast for your feat. The horns are chunky and take control when present, while the guitar is upbeat and tickles your toes to move. The keyboards once again add depth to the music. They also add a different flavor, amounting to a great taste. They are played to perfection, and often lead the music. On "Alcoholic" the slightly rough vocals carry the song, while the horns emphasize. The beat is slow, so you can absorb the words. When they want they can have fun with the lyrics, and when they want to be serious and write something that reflects that mood, they can do that as well. And this song is a perfect example of that diversity The Investigators create. "I Don't Wanna Heart It Anymore" is a mid-tempo song that will get you to dance first, and then sing along within moments. The chorus is highly infectious with the drums adding a bite to it. The horns add tremendous power to the song. Twelve great songs make a fabulous CD!

Take my word for it, you'll be hearing more from The Investigators in the coming months. This CD is highly infectious, highly danceable, and full of energy. Anyone that's into ska (traditional, ska-punk, two-tone, third-wave, etc.) will find love in this CD! Pick it up today, and if you can't find it, e-mail the band (click the words "self released" at the top of this article) and they'll gladly take your order. A definite A+!!!

Invaders From A Forbidden Planet: Queen City

Iodine: Baby Grand

[Issue Four // January 1998]