All Killer, No Filler: The Planet Smashers Return with On The Dancefloor

If you’re after pure, unfiltered ska joy, The Planet Smashers are back to deliver exactly that…and then some. On The Dancefloor is a high-energy blast of melodic, horn-fuelled ska that’s as infectious as it is thoughtful, marrying the band’s trademark bounce with some sharp political edges.

Formed in Montreal back in 1994, The Planet Smashers have long been at the heart of the Canadian (and world) ska scene, waving the flag through the 3rd wave boom and beyond. Known for their tongue-in-cheek humour, relentless positivity, and skanking anthems, they’ve built a global following with albums like Life of the Party and No Self Control. Three decades in, they still sound as fresh and fun as ever and On The Dancefloor proves they’re not done making people move.

From the opening bars of Wasting Tomorrows, you know exactly what you’re in for – punchy horns, choppy guitars, and a rhythm section that could make a statue dance. It’s pure Planet Smashers: upbeat, melodic, and impossible to sit still to. The tempo barely lets up across the album, and frankly, you wouldn’t want it to.

But don’t be fooled by the sunny disposition, there’s a bite beneath the bounce. Songs like Police Brutality and Bags of Cash weave in commentary on social injustice and the grim realities of modern politics. Ska has always had protest in its bones, and The Planet Smashers carry that tradition proudly here.

One of the most exciting touches is the presence of 2-Tone legends Neville Staple (The Specials) and Charley “Aitch” Bembridge (The Selecter), who lend their talents to the album. It’s a smart move – the collaborations add a layer of old-school authenticity and bridge the gap beautifully between 2-Tone’s UK roots and The Planet Smashers’ North American energy.

The aptly named Meet Me On The Dancefloor does exactly what it says on the tin – you can practically feel the sweat and the smiles of a packed ska gig as it plays. Alien keeps the momentum going, another infectious tune that’ll have you skanking in your living room. Walk on Back channels a hint of The Specials’ more recent sound, with a moody undertone beneath the rhythm, while Easy Like I Do slows things down with a nod to traditional Jamaican ska complete with warm horns, rolling bass, and a laid-back groove that’s impossible not to love.

And then there’s Bags of Cash – a standout favourite for me. It’s got that perfect blend of energy and melody that The Planet Smashers do so well. If you only listen to one track from this record, make it that one.

On The Dancefloor is everything you want from a modern ska album: fun, political, and bursting with dancefloor-ready tunes. The Planet Smashers prove that ska isn’t nostalgia – it’s alive, vital, and still has plenty to say. With a nod to the 2-Tone heroes who inspired them and their own unmistakable sense of fun, this is one enjoyable ska ride of an album.

Get it on, get up, and get skanking.