No.40 - ’Get The Picture?’ by Smash Mouth (2003)

“Anti-gravitation keeps you high above; Like some comet speeding toward the sun; Communication's lost between the ones who love you; It's impossible to think that something loves you more than us…”

From the likes of Shrek, to almost every teen comedy movie, Smash Mouth are one of the most soundtracked bands. Hearing the constant renditions of ‘All Star’, it was a cover of War’s ‘Why Can’t We Be Friends’ that caught my attention…this pop band played ska punk?

Having gone out and purchased their debut album, it was apparent that their roots were indeed in ska and punk music. Whilst this was prevalent, it was their psychedelic rock sound that seemed to lay the foundation for their next few albums with ska and reggae making a cameo here and there. And whilst never having the success of their first few records, it’s their fourth studio album that finds it’s way into my top 100.

Probably the catchiest on the list; this mix of synth, pop and light rock makes an unlikely appearance, but since first listen i’ve always loved this album. The songs are so good, very memorable and a joy to listen to. It’s a maturer sound than previous outings, and the first of their albums that doesn’t seem gimmicky. Melodies are excellent and the band sounds great, not straying far from the typical Smash Mouth sound, with enough rock, interesting synth, guitar riffs and solos to keep a punk like me happy. We even have an appearance from english ska legends, The Beat vocalist Ranking Roger (Mirror in The Bathroom etc) on a great little, yet slightly over produced, ska/reggae number (apparently written by Neil Diamond).

Most of the album hails back to the sound of their first big hit ‘Walkin’ On The Sun’, which is possibly my favourite Smash Mouth song. A thoroughly superb album that will have you singing the songs for days on end. Great consistency throughout and i’m surprised these songs never made much airplay in the UK, although you will catch a couple on some children’s films.

Smash Mouth, named after an American Football term, formed in 1994, California. ‘Get The Picture?’ never charted in any country, and unfortunately was never released on vinyl.

Favourite songs - Space Man, You Are My Number One, Hang On, Looking For A Wall

Other great albums - Astrolounge (1999)