The Slackers latest album of ska and reggae and keeps the rocksteady soul alive in 2003. Catch more spiritual skank and vibes from Vic Ruggiero and the crew from Brooklyn.

When asked recently about why The Slackers are still around after nearly a decade of dedication to singular ska and reggae, keyboardist/songwriter Vic Ruggiero simply replied, "I dunno. We're just stubborn, I guess." That stubbornness is rightly earned, for they seem to be stubborn about the exact right things: good rhythms, sweet melodies, music that's solid as dirt and just as earthy. "Close My Eyes" is even more introspective and moody, if possible, than any recent Slackers endeavor. No doubt, its Ruggiero's continued leadership in songwriting that continues to set this tone. The songs run the gamut of rootsy ska once again, from the down-heavy romp of "I'll Stay Away" to the salty mento style of "Old Dog" (think Tom Waits in Jamaica). The one track that really hits me, though, is "Mommy." This autobiographical home to Ruggiero's late mother is full of emotion and truth and fittingly typical of the power of upbeat ska to wrench joyful tribute out of heartache and loss. Of course, the staying power of the band in general is alos due to the solid friendship and kinship of the stable lineup they've maintained for years, notwithstanding the departure of Luis Zulu on drums. Marcus Geard and TJ Scanlon drive the rhythm section with new drummer Allen Teboul, and Dave Hillyard continues his jazz-kicking antics as the King of Bohemian ska sax, forever inspired by the spirit of Roland Alphonso. Ska's in good hands with these guys. Listen up!

 ~ Bob Timm