No.77 - ‘Hang-Ups’ by Goldfinger (1997)

“Empty man lonely man, I call myself depressed; I'm finding ways to avoid you, at the expense of sanity; I'm hanging on your words, and I'd like to share a thought; I know that I can't be you now, but I'd like to stay a while…”

The first Goldfinger album i bought was ‘Stomping Ground’ , released in 2000, and it was great, but slightly disappointing due to the fact it was pure punk rock and devoid of any of the ska that I was expecting. Shortly after, I was introduced to the first Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater game, which featured their song ‘Superman’. I researched for the album and promptly bought it. To this day it remains as one of my favourite ska punk albums.

I would describe Hang-Ups as one of the “sunnier” albums on this list and of Goldfinger’s repertoire; Ironic as the lyrics seem to be mostly based on disappointment. But these are the kind of vibes that would go down well on a Californian beach in Summer. Although there is a good mix of punk rock and ska, the ska songs shine brightest. More recently i’ve been preferring the minor key whereas these songs are mostly major, but the songs are so well written and formulated that there is no ‘stilton’ to be heard.

The tunes are melodic and the songs varied in style. The brass hooks are excellent, which see Reel Big Fish’s Scott and Dan on Trumpet and Trombone respectively. The song ‘Carlita’ also features the most excellent Angelo Moore from Fishbone (more on them later in the list) on vocals and saxophone, including a bit of baritone. The lead guitar throughout the album isnt showy and i absolutely love the muted rhythmic picking - almost a signature sound for the band in their earlier years. But if you are fan of any ska or punk rock band, go and grab this album. 

Goldfinger formed in 1994 and are still active, with a new lineup including MXPX frontman Mike Herrera on bass guitar. This album didn't chart in any country. Singer, John Feldmann is also a world renown producer, having produced albums and written for the likes of Panic At The Disco, Biffy Clyro, Good Charlotte… and even Hilary Duff. It was released on vinyl, but is very hard to find and currently does not reside in my collection.

Favourite songs -  Carlita, I Need To Know, Superman, 20 Cent Goodbye
Other great albums - The Knife (2017), Disconnection Notice (2005)





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