TrueBeat - Shanty Town

by Fiona Hutchings

published: 15 / 12 / 2010

Label: TrueBeat
Format: CDS

Well performed, but indistinctive new single from young British ska act, TrueBeat

Review

By my reckoning we are in the fourth generation of ska. Prince Buster and co. were first, then we had Madness, the Specials, The Beat, the Selecter and Bad Manners etc in the late 70's and 80's (and beyond of course). In the 90's we had a sort of American skate ska invasion with the likes of Smash Mouth and early No Doubt. UK ska punk is leading the way yet again in 2010. Formed two years ago TrueBeat have already played over 100 shows with the likes of the Beat, Bad Manners and Catch-it Kebabs. Their new single 'Shanty Town' is instantly recognisable as a ska standard with its fast pace, reggae inspired walking bass and that up tempo and precise guitar licking. The lyrics have that cocky cockney edge and pogoing swagger you would expect and this single delivers on all levels. That said there is nothing totally original here and this is always a problem for modern ska bands. How do you emulate the essence of ska and retain your own identity? You presumably want to deliver that sound but not come off as a second rate tribute act. TrueBeat seemed to have learnt their craft well and I don't doubt that they do indeed 'get crowds moving'. What they need now is that little something that really sets them apart and makes their sound more their own.