Near the end of “Rio,” Goldfinger switches from ska to Dio’s “Rainbow in the Dark,” both in rhythm and vocal melodies, yet keeps the lyrics to “Rio” intact.
As with any mixed bag of nuts, some are savory, some are bitter, some are almost candy sweet, and a handful can be swallowed without really noticing any taste.
The punk side is reminiscent of Snuff. The ska side is not so easily pinned down. I’m not a fan of distorted guitar in ska, but this band may turn me around.
Sans ska-stylings, Less Than Jake here play pop punk in the Screeching Weasel vein. Predictable “whoas” are placed in the usual, slightly off-time format.
Some established ska acts like Mephiskapheles and Ruder Than You, as well as some newer bands such as Less Than Jake (my favorite), and Mock Turtle Soup.