THE AGGROLITES; "Reggae Hit L.A." (Hellcat/Epitaph).*** 1/2
Reggae and ska musicians regularly pay respect to their roots by acknowledging the contributions of the musicians who paved the way for them.
And the L.A.-area five-piece band the Aggrolites do it better than anyone.
The band's brand of "dirty reggae" not only references Bob Marley and the Wailers but also recalls the works of even earlier reggae music legends Desmond Dekker and Toots & The Maytals.
But their third, full-length release — the second for the Hellcat Records label — is no mere knock-off. "Reggae Hit L.A." stands proudly alongside the Wailers' and Maytals' best efforts, and is certainly one of the better modern reggae/ska albums.
One big area of improvement is the recording quality. Lead guitarist Jesse Wagner's surprisingly soulful vocals finally take a central role here. (Although you have to see a live performance to get an accurate impression of Wagner's vocal power charisma.)
"Reggae Hit L.A." also finds the Aggrolites incorporating more outside musical influences. The title track is a sweaty, James Brown-style funk romp, while "Let's Pack Our Bags" dabbles in '50s doo-wop. However, the standout here may be the R&B-tinged "Free Time," the album's first single.
A handful of instrumentals showcase Wagner's bandmates, especially "You Got 5," which prominently features keyboardist Roger Rivas.
And the CD ends with "We Came to Score," a stomp that's perfect as a chant for your next soccer game.
A rather lengthy, secret-dub instrumental track that follows may fill out the disc, but it's definitely not crucial.
While it may not best the band's 2005 self-titled release, this album at least equals it — no small feat. "Reggae Hit L.A." is also guaranteed to get your feet tapping and leave a big smile on your face.
If you go
What: The Aggrolites
Where: In the Venue, 579 W. 200 South
When: Tonight, 6 p.m.
How much: $10
Phone: 328-0255
Web: www.myspace.com/theaggrolites
E-mail: jeff@desnews.com