When the world shut down last year because of the global pandemic, musicians got hit pretty hard. Clubs shut down and tours were postponed or cancelled. It’s been extremely hard to make money as independent artists these days. To help cushion some of the negative effects of losing major sources of revenue, different folks stepped up. Spotify allowed artists to put links to PayPal accounts up on band profile pages for instance. Bandcamp went one step further. They instituted Bandcamp Friday, where they waived all fees for the artists who sell music on their platform. As things start to improve in the world, they’ve kept up with the practice. The first Friday of the month is a time for artists to put out something cool, and this Friday is no different. In fact, three of my favorite ska bands decided to release some goodies out to the world today.
Bandcamp Friday goes ska, part one: The Prizefighters
Up first is Minnesota’s The Prizefighters. If you’ve been following along at home, then you already know that The Prizefighters have been doing a YouTube Web Series for the last two weeks. Today, the band drops the third, and final episode. It includes “Firewalk,” “The Accolade,” and a surprise that I don’t want to spoil. Just like the previous episodes, the sound and production is immaculate. It really is a shame they haven’t released it as an album.
Since this is a Bandcamp Friday wrap-up, and not a YouTube one, I can officially confirm that every track the band recorded for YouTube were also professionally recorded for a live album release! The audio and production folks at Future Condo Recording Studio really captured the magic of the session so well on this recording that I highly recommend it. You can download it by clicking here.
Bandcamp Friday goes ska, part two: Flying Raccoon Suit
Earlier this year, Flying Raccoon Suit had a tremendously successful Kickstarter to fund the vinyl release of their new album Afterglow. Sadly, they just sold out of the last of that vinyl. Have no fear though, in the spirit of Bandcamp Friday, I can let you know that all isn’t lost. The band has released two limited variants of the album (150 each) today.
The cool thing about this, not only will you get an absolutely amazing vinyl colorway, but you’ll get an immediate digital download of the new album to tide you over until the album comes in the mail! And, if you buy a vinyl between now and Sunday, 5/9/2021, you’ll be entered to win a signed album from the band! Afterglow, will no doubt be in my top five albums of the year when it’s all said and done, so don’t miss out on this. Don’t believe me about how good it is? Here’s my review!
Bandcamp Friday goes ska, part three: We Are The Union
Today marks the release of We Are The Union’s next single off their upcoming album, Ordinary Life. The song, “Boys Will Be Girls” is going to be the ska anthem of the summer, I can already feel it. It’s poppy, upbeat, catchy, and really hits home the idea of living your truth, even when facing adversity. The song declares that we’re done caring what others think. At times, I hear a little new wave pop, as well as hints of Goldfinger influences, especially with the how Jer’s trombone work plays off with the rest of the arrangement.
To celebrate the release of the new single, the band has decided to release a “bootleg” shirt for one day only on their Bandcamp page. After seeing it, you’re going to want it that way, with that way being on the way to your house.
I hope you find some time to support these three bands today. If not, consider looking up one of your favorite bands and see what they have going on. Any kind of support is greatly appreciated these days.