THE SLACKERS; "Live at Ernesto's!" (Hellcat/Epitaph).***1/2
It's no surprise that fewer bands are releasing live albums these days. Those that do run the risk of having an "off night" recorded for posterity, which might give fans and other listeners a false impression of the group's live prowess.But "Live at Ernesto's!" should encourage other acts to take the plunge. This 15-track CD documents a recent European tour by New York ska act the Slackers, including a two-night stint at Ernesto's, a Mexican restaurant in Holland.
The resulting recording, accurately described by gruff-voiced frontman Vic Ruggiero as "sweat-drenched and alcohol-fueled," finds the band in the midst of an "on night."
Drawing material from the previous three Slackers albums, it also makes a convincing case that perhaps the band should consider recording all of its albums live.
Though the departure point is a more traditional version of ska -- slowed down to a more danceable pace -- the song styles vary. Included are quality forays into dub reggae ("Mush One"), and soul ("Face in the Crowd"), both of which showcase the brass section of Glen Pine, Dave Hillyard and Jeremy Mushlin.
Even better are the brisk "Keep Him Away," which flirts with Latin stylings, and "I Still Love You," a tribute to ska legends the Skatalites.
The Slackers perform Saturday, April 15, at ABG's, 190 W. Center, Provo.