Let's Face It

By the time this, their fifth album, was released on Mercury Records, the Mighty Mighty Bosstones’ style had evolved from what had been a scrappy ska-punk sound to a much denser and more bombastic ska-metal. (Their live show was notable for including a cover of Metallica’s “Enter Sandman.”) This shift also led directly to the band’s first big hit: the anthemic and cathartic “The Impression That I Get.”  The album continues that vibe with hook-laden raveups like “The Rascal King” and “Royal Oil.” As always, frontman Dicky Barrett’s vocal style is a gravelly roar that hints at melodies more than it states them, and the horn section is tight and powerful.