In the next few days, things will get as close to normal as they’ve been in some time. For most of us, news from the world of ska-punk couldn’t come at a better time. In the end, 2021 may be the year the four-piece from Los Angeles called The Interrupters turn into one of the biggest names in the music world.
2020 – and a good portion of 2021 – has seen most of us living in some sort of lockdown order due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Worldwide it’s been challenging, and good news is always welcome. For some reason, good news from our favorite bands makes us do more than smile, it soothes our souls. The Interrupters are about to do something for all of us.
For the 4th wave ska-punk icons, they didn’t rest on their laurels during the year-long lockdown. Sure, they’ve had uber-hits we fell in love with that made them household names. Songs like “A Friend Like Me,” “Haven’t Seen the Last of Me,” “Take Back the Power,” “By My Side,” “Gave You Everything,” and “She’s Keronsene.” They even played Kimmel before the world went sideways. Despite the pandemic taking root and adversely impacting every aspect of life, the band kept on working on music.
They even put out a cool cover of Billie Eilish’s “Bad Guy” that was featured in “Umbrella Academy,” Season two.
They worked on a collaboration with The Mighty Mighty Bosstones, “The Final Parade.” They were also featured in the “Ska Against Racism” album that people worldwide loved.
SKA AGAINST RACISM PROMOTIONAL BANNER
Who are The Interrupters exactly? They are one of the most exciting live bands to come out of L.A. in some time. The band features three brothers, the Bivona brothers. Kevin is on lead guitar (backing vocals), Justin on bass (backing vocals) and Jesse on drums (backing vocals). The lead singer is one of the most dynamic voices in the world of music. Aimee Interrupter has endeared herself to a genre fandom who have compared her to Joan Jett with an onstage command that would impress Gwen Stefani and Pauline Black. Collectively the band oozes electricity.
PHOTO BY GREEN-EYED BLONDE PHOTOGRAPHY
I’ve been fortunate enough to have known this band before they strpped in to that cartoon-crazy rocket ride to stardom. Truth-be-told, they are good, decent people and because of that, they would never say this… but, it can be argued that The Interrupters’ success helped usher in the 4th wave of ska. They helped resurrect a genre that was ready for a comeback.
It is said that if you surround yourself with great people, great things are destined to happen. Not sure who said that, but sounds scientific to me. Anyway, for a select few, everything some people touch touch turns to gold, or platinum. With that as a backdrop, we recently spoke with Jared Watson of the Dirty Heads. In that chat he revealed DH was working on a new album and as in the past, they were collaborating with other artists. He mentioned they worked with a few names we may know. Names like Kevin, Aimee and a cat named Travis. Jared couldn’t go into detail, but he said this little project just might provide the Dirty Heads a massive hit. Even with this news being on the DL, I’m sure you can roll the dice and guess what band’s Jared was talking about.
Fast forward to today, we can rejoice with a live album coming from The Interrupters. For me, there are three live albums I have always felt were the standard of measurement for greatness. There’s “Frampton Comes Alive,” “Kiss Alive!” and “Cheap Trick at Budokan.” All three marked legendary moments in the development of these bands and artist. The Interrupters “Live In Tokyo,” just might be on that level of greatness. The album is due out June 18th, but you can sample “On a Turntable” now.
If that’s not enough to satisfy your appetite for total coolness, how’s this? …. in celebration of their latest release “Live In Toyko!,” The Interrupters along with director Kevin Kerslake have teamed up to create the film ‘This Is My Family! The film features the full live performance from Summer Sonic festival in Tokyo, behind the scenes footage, exclusive interviews, and a glimpse into each of the band members childhoods. The Interrupters have toured extensively over the years, establishing their live show as more than just your typical ska-punk revival gathering.
With the upcoming release of “Live In Tokyo,” fans worldwide lost their proverbial minds when the band said through their socials “After this brutal past year we see more than ever how important live music is to us all. It heals us. It connects us. It means everything to us.” Needless to say, the Hella Mega Tour is going to be an event we may talk about for years to come.
How crazy is this?…. Green Day, Weezer, Fall Out Boy and The Interrupters all on the same tour! We get to see this tour when it comes to Petco Park August 29th and Dodger Stadium on September 3rd.
HELLA MEGA TOUR BANNER
Until then, check out the new live album, and keep following the band for more exciting news!
