New York City ska stalwarts The Slackers will return to Thunder Road in Somerville this Friday, November 17. The band has announced they’ll be performing their 1997 album “Redlight” in Somerville and other cities full as part of a string of dates celebrating the release. “Redlight” was their sophomore effort and this year marks its 20th anniversary. The band has a string of other album-themed dates through the end of the year.
When I began seeing The Slackers in the early 00’s, it wasn’t uncommon to hear fans shout out requests for “The Fried Chicken Song” off of “Redlight.” The album is home to many fan favorites and set staples such as “Married Girl” and “Watch This.” It’s really maintained its staying power with fans.
LISTEN: This album contains all your favorite songs
Redlight Vinyl Reissue
Collectors will be psyched to know that Pirate Press has remastered and pressed “Redlight” on 180 gram vinyl in a variety of colors for only $15. Admittedly, I did not know that Hellcat pressed it back in 1997; those originals are out there on eBay. However, this 20th anniversary reissue contains three tracks not available on the original and makes a really solid night three Hanukkah present for your favorite ska blogger. Speaking of the holidays…
Christmas Shows in November
This show will likely stand in as the band’s annual “holiday” show usually taking place in December at The Sinclair in previous years and at The Middle East before that. While I expect the band to play more than just “Redlight” songs, it’ll be interesting to see whether they break out any holiday covers like “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” or “The Dreydl Song.” While I love hearing those songs, it’s not even Thanksgiving yet. While some folks can listen to the Sirius Christmas station year round, I really need to pace myself.
This show will be supported by our friend Sammy Kay who’s been known to play both solo and with a band playing sets filled with his signature rock-n-roll sound or his rocksteady tunes. The last time he was in town, he performed songs off of his self-titled Stomp Records release as a power trio at The Midway Cafe in Jamaica Plain. It will be interesting to see which sides of Sammy Kay we get to see this at this show.
Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door; this show is 21 and over. Here’s the Facebook Event.
Check our calendar often for show listings just like this one.