Disc review: Idlers, Keep Out

This review was originally published on Exclaim!

The Idlers

Idlers

Keep Out

By Ronak Ghorbani

Since forming in 2006, Canadian east coasters the Idlers have taken their reggae ska act across the nation, performing what they call a “reggae circus.” With sophomore album Keep Out, their high-energy live performance doesn’t exactly translate onto disc but there are still many gems. Opener “Wonderwars” features pulsating guitar, an ace horn section and tight musicianship ― no surprise from this well rehearsed 11-piece band. The Idlers’ use of falsetto backup vocals on every track gives their sound an old-school reggae feel. On “Fish ‘n Rum,” a ringing guitar chorus is accompanied by tooting horns making sweet harmonies. Produced by Bad Brains bassist Darryl Jenifer, Keep Out is cohesively mellow from beginning to end. Tracks to look out for are “Better Day,” which gives the horns plenty of room to blow their roaring notes, and “Englishman,” picking up their ska influences with danceable beats. (Independent)

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