Reel Big Fish
Welcome to the very first edition of The Weekend Playlist.
Each playlist will be based on a theme (whether that's by artist, genre - anything really), and we'll be putting up a feature about all the songs included on it.
To make things even better, you can listen to the playlist on Spotify right here while you read the article!
Inspired by the recent Nirvava reggae tribute album from Little Roy, we've compiled a playlist of some of the best reggae-influenced songs by contemporary bands.
1. Mr Music Man - The King Blues
One of the forerunners of the political ska-punk scene, The King Blues' sound is heavily influenced by reggae.
This track, taken from their debut album Under The Fog, is a perfect reggae anthem, a tribute to enjoying live music and a good commentary on the attitudes of some bands.
2. Sunny Side of the Street - Sonic Boom Six
Manchester-based Sonic Boom Six fuse hip-hop, ska, punk and reggae in an energetic, heavy and exciting style.
This, their latest single, is an infectious summer anthem and an excellent reggae track.
Acoustic-driven with up-beat lyrics, the rapped verse from Barney Boom provides a nice contrast to Layla K's sweet vocals to make a great tune.
3. The Science of Selling Yourself Short - Less Than Jake
Less Than Jake are more of a punk/ska-core band than traditionalists.
Firmly established as legends in the third wave scene, this track shows that they have a knack for a great melody and know what makes a good reggae song.
The warm production and well-crafted instrumentation makes this one of their most-loved tracks, and a great example of reggae's on-going influence.
4. Bright Girl - The Skints
Keeping the scene going strong, The Skints are part of a reggae renaissance of sorts.
This is reminiscent of the likes of Bob Marley and Toots & The Maytalls, and it's no surprise The Skints are building up a fantastic reputation with songs as good as this.
5. He Was A Jazzman - The Flatliners
Generally a punk-rock act, The Flatliners carry some heavy reggae influences in some of their work, and 'He Was A Jazzman' is the perfect example of this.
The gritty, raw vocals work perfectly with the off-beat strumming, and this was one of the strongest songs of their Cavalcade album.
6. An A-Political Stand of Reasons - Capdown
Continuing with another punk band, Capdown combine a hybrid of influences including hardcore and, of course, reggae.
Whilst some of these are quite subtle, this track manages to feel heavy despite the low-key verses, and the dual vocals work wonderfully.
Launching into a hardcore-punk break-down, the track is a fresh way to show the influence reggae has had on the band's music.
7. Gyasi Went Home - Bedouin Soundclash
Bedouin Soundclash are more of a "traditional" reggae act.
The track is initially driven by well-timed percussion and a fantastic melody.
Chilled out and highly accessible, the band's appearance at Reading & Leeds Festivals this year may suggest reggae's return to the public's ears.
It proves that reggae isn't just defined by up-stroked or off-beat guitars, as the percussions and even the melodies are a product of the genre.
8. Everybody's Better - The Mighty Mighty Bosstones
Pioneers of the ska-punk Third Wave, The Mighty Mighty Bosstones have influenced a huge number of bands on this playlist.
However, on 'Everybody's Better' they're not afraid to show their own infuences.
A fairly simple track, the harmony on the main hook is extremely catchy, making for a very up-beat reggae song.
9. Best God In Show - NOFX
Another punk band, NOFX have always included reggae songs or influences on their albums.
2009's Coaster was no different, and gave us this anti-religion anthem.
It might offend some, but everything about this song is wonderful, from the intelligent lyrics, the catchy riff and the organs, reminiscent of more traditional reggae songs.
10. This Lonely Place - Goldfinger
Sometimes, the influence doesn't have to be as blatant as a lot of the songs on this week's playlist.
Goldfinger's track 'This Lonely Place' is one no-one would deny is influence by the genre, but their pop-punk roots makes this something different.
The production is fantastic, the chorus infectious and the mood up-beat: what more would you want from a reggae-ska track?
11. Drinking For 11 - Mad Caddies
In a contrast, 'Drinking For 11' is a darker song showing the quality of Chuck Robertson's vocals.
For a band that deny a love for ska or reggae, they certainly seem unashamed on this epic, motivational anthem.
12. Slow Down - Reel Big Fish
Rounding off our playlist is this gem from Reel Big Fish's back catalogue.
Re-recorded for A Best For Us...For The Rest Of Us, it's a big track that shows another side to the usually ska-punk, humour-driven sounds of RBF's more famous work.
Featuring an absolutely wonderful guitar solo, off-beat up-strokes, acoustic guitars and an organ, this is a typical reggae tune done to absolute perfection, and a great way to end our first Weekend Playlist.
So, what do you think? Do you agree with our choices? Got some suggestions of your own, or have we helped you discover some new bands? Let us know in the comment section.
Female First - Alistair McGeorge