The Radiation Kings
A Look Back at Things to Come…
King Django/Stubborn
This 4-song vinyl-only EP from New York City’s Radiation Kings is a winner from start to finish. Producer Agent Jay has given the recording a nice, old-sounding quality that enhances the authentic feel of these tunes. It’s the same feeling I got listening to the Rocker T & Version City Rockers CD earlier this year; as with that record, A Look Back… doesn’t sound dated, but the “old” feel of the recording may trick you into thinking you’re listening to lost Jamaican classics. Lisa White’s soulful voice soars over the classic rocksteady vibe of the opening track, “Can’t Find a Way.” “Dia De Los Muertos” is a nice, reggae-inflected instrumental. “This I Know” is sure to get feet moving; it has a tasty mod/soul feel, cranks up the speed to a familiar ska tempo, and has some fantastic sax work. “NYC Blues” closes out the record with more beautiful Lisa White vocals, as she belts over a mellow groove and an infectious horn line. A Look Back… has me looking forward to a full-length from this talented band. The Radiation Kings left me hungry for more. Stubborn Records, 504 Grand St. #F52, New York, NY 10002
