“hippos”
The Hippos
Heads Are Gonna Roll
Interscope
I’ve always thought that the Hippos rock, and this CD is no exception. It’s just good stuff. The addition of a synthesizer to The Hippos’ lineup did nothing to change the quality of their music. If anything, it gives the group a different and bigger sound. Heads Are Gonna Roll alternates relaxed, almost two-tone sounding songs with more characteristic third-wave ska.
I thought just about everything on this CD was worth listening to, but as always, there are standouts. “Wasting My Life” is a great, upbeat song that I think most can relate to. Their version of Burt Bacharach’s “Always Something There To Remind Me” is sweet and sincere. One of my favorites from 1997’s Forget the World , “Far Behind” is on this CD. I think it’s supposed to be a different version of it, but I’m not sure. I listened real close but there are only a few new synth licks added into it. That’s OK, it’s still a great song.
The Hippos are a great band with universal appeal, so I think all ska fans should definitely check them out. They rock live, and their songs are clever and make you feel good. For some reason, they make me think about Weezer. So check this CD out, and I’m sure you will be glad you did.
Interscope Records, P.O. Box 1621, Burbank, CA 91507
