This is the Chinkees second full length release. Singer/guitarist Mike Park is best known for his work with bands such as Skankin Pickle, and the Bruce Lee Band, as well as being the head of the indie label Asian Man Records. For most people when they see the bands name, The Chinkees, they may have to take a double take. But that's the band's intention. The band comments on this is in the inside cover of the CD. You see the Chinkees are an "all Asian-band". "The Chinkees name is not meant to be a racial slur, but just the opposite. It's meant to be a direct look at racism and the reality of its presence. The Chinkees name is meant to make you feel uncomfortable, to make you look at those reasons, question them, and look into the ugly reality that racism exists so blatantly." The Chinkees are out to truly make a difference. They are not about money, or being the next big band. But instead they are focused on making a positive difference in a world that seems overwhelmed by hate. 10% of the bands proceeds go toward charitable organizations. As far as the music goes the Chinkees deliver a great organ driven ska punk sound that at times incorporates elements of rocksteady, ska and punk. The songs are short and to the point, catchy and full of fun, even if the topics covered are not always necessarily fun. The Chinkees bring back to mind bands such as Operation Ivy and even the Specials at times. Another cool thing the band does on the inside cover of the CD is explains what each song is about. Something I wish more bands would do, especially bands that truly have something to say. Some topics the band deals with in their songs are: The Korean War, college education, racism, two songs about Christmas, a Japanese exchange student, lost dreams, touring, and an old Korean children's song they cover called "San Toki". I encourage anyone who is into the whole ska punk style of music to check this band out. Also be sure to read the interview I did with the Chinkees frontman Mike Park in the interview section of Decapolis.com.
B
Other coverage for this album
Decapolis 1999Reviewed by ConradThe Chinkees are a solid ska band that focuses on American Asians, which happens to include me, so I'm a little biased. A big plus is that they don't mess up their good poppy ska by overusing punk or by being too aggressive. The production is really tight. The organ instead of horns really fits their music also. I really liked it. BDecapolis 1999Reviewed by MarkIf you know me, you know that ska is not one of my favorite musical styles. The fact that I could listen to this CD straight through and actually enjoy it from start to finish really says something. If you like ska/punk with some traditional ska elements and lyrics with a message, you'll enjoy it too. BDecapolis 1999Reviewed by TimSka. Humph....well, the melodies are very catchy and this cd isn't annoying. So it really isn't your everyday ska band. They are very good. B-Similar sounding releases
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