While many bands from the late 1990s have fallen by the wayside, ska veterans Reel Big Fish and Less Than Jake have managed to endure. Both of these outfits scored big hits as ska emerged on rock radio as an alternative to grunge. If not for Reel Big Fish hits “Sell Out” and cover of a-ha’s “Take on Me” then Less Than Jake may not have had the chance to score big hits with “She's Gonna Break Soon” and “The Science of Selling Yourself Short” at the beginning of the 2000s. These two bands are linked together, and have embraced their rich past by going on tour together. Far from a nostalgia act, both of these bands retain a devoted following that allows them to play their catchy brand of ska on regular basis, which is more than what their contemporaries can say.
Wed., Feb. 18, 7:30 p.m., 2015
Daniel Kohn is a writer based in Southern California. With bylines in an assortment of outlets, Kohn primarily specializes in music with other interests ranging from sports to food. As a transplant, Kohn loves the beautiful weather and is glad he no longer has to deal with brutal winters. If you see him, say hi and of course, he’s always willing to down a beer or two…if you’re paying.