While The Bruce Lee Band’s lineup, unfortunately, does not include the late legendary martial artist, one could argue that its members are among the Bruce Lee tier of contemporary ska. Alongside the project’s mastermind Mike Park, the band’s current lineup features members of Jeff Rosenstock’s band (including but not limited to Jeff Rosenstock) and MU330, who are met with contributions from Angelo Moore of Fishbone and Jeremy Hunter of We Are the Union on the outfit’s new album One Step Forward, Two Steps Back, the follow-up to last year’s Division in the Heartland EP.
While the meeting of the minds of Park and Rosenstock provides the perfect collision of DIY punk and ska, Park shares that the record’s sounds were likely shaded by icons of either—and often both—genres, like Operation Ivy, The Specials, and Rocket From the Crypt, as well as the sounds of younger bands at the intersection of ska and punk like Catbite. He even cites a few tracks that could very easily be converted to these genres, such as Kool & the Gang’s “Jungle Boogie.”
To go a little deeper into these influences, Park took the time to put together a playlist of 19 songs prominently on the speakers over the course of the past year as OSFTSB came together. “These are some songs that have been in heavy rotation for me over the past 12 months, whether or not they influenced the writing of the album,” he explains. “It’s highly probable, ’cause that's what music does—it inspires you to make art.”
Listen along below, and read on for Park’s words on a few select tracks from the playlist. One Step Forward drops this Friday via Park’s own Asian Man Records—pre-order it here.
Jackie Mitto, “Ghetto Organ”
Jackie is the original keys player for the legendary Skatalites. His solo records showcase his shredding on the organ. Instrumentals with soul and a rocksteady backbeat. Hearing that B3 pump through the Leslie is orgasmic. Definitely an influence on how we wanted the rocksteady/dub tunes to sound on the BLB record.
Fishbone, “Unyielding Conditioning”
The one-drop played by Fish is just sick, TBH—it proves he can play any style (metal, punk, funk, ska, reggae) better than anybody. Lyrically captivating, groove-heavy, melodic, and a threshold everyone tries to hit when playing a traditional ska rhythm.
The Selecter, “3 Minute Hero”
One of the most unique bands from the British 2 tone movement. The unique blend of odd time signatures with dissonant melodies/harmonies and the dynamic presence of Pauline Black are front and center.
Operation Ivy, “Take Warning”
For any kid who gets into punk, you’ll eventually be introduced to Operation Ivy. The no-frills in-your-face approach to ska-punk was revolutionary to multiple generations of punk rockers. The impetus for this lineup of the BLB is because of our common love of Op Ivy. I picked “Take Warning” for the slowed-down, punky reggae groove and the lyrical genius of frontman Jesse Michaels.
Kool & the Gang, “Jungle Boogie”
The groove on this is undeniable. High-energy funk that just shakes the body down. The staccato horn riff is bitchin’, and I hear this bubbly Farfisa that could translate this into a funky reggae song. Maybe a cover in the future?
7 Seconds, “Not Just Boys Fun”
A feminist anthem from the early-’80s. When I want to listen to hardcore, I put on the crew. I like hearing the landscape of progressive punk in the early years. The music/message is one that has been ingrained in my soul, and it’s always an influence in our punkier songs
Rocket From the Crypt, “On a Rope”
The rock ’n’ roll groove that is RFTC is very unique. When writing songs for One Step Forward, the song “Don’t Want to Go Back Again” was undeniably influenced by RFTC. Though the sounds are totally different, the homage to them is present at least in my head.
Catbite, “Can’t Give You Love”
A friend named Gilbert was at Asian Man helping pack records and he was playing some music. I asked, “Who is this?” and he said “Catbite.” I love hearing new bands that perk me up. This song is my favorite from their debut LP. I've been a fan ever since, and even got to duet with their vocalist Brittany. I consider them the best new ska-influenced band out there today.
Slackers, “Shameboy”
The Slackers have set a bar so high that in my case I can only sit back, listen, and enjoy. Vic Ruggiero should be a household name. He has more talent in his left foot than I have in my entire body. Their new record is just an extension of a catalog of great songs that blend everything from Americana, ska, jazz, and soul, and they're always pushing the boundaries.
Toni Basil, “Hey Mickey”
If you’re old like me, you remember this song. The video of cheerleaders, led by Toni Basil. If that’s all you remember, then give it another listen. It’s insane how good this song is. The group vocals kick off straight in with the chorus and have made me want to do group vocals for every project I do.
