Lovesteady as She Goes: Genre-Hopping with Los Fastidios

Italian ska-punk stalwarts Los Fastidios return with Lovesteady, an album that perfectly encapsulates their signature blend of infectious energy, uncompromising politics, and genre-bending experimentation.

The album kicks off with a 30-second live intro, a sample seemingly pulled from a gig, creating the feeling that you’re being ushered into a packed, sweaty venue moments before the band explodes into action. That explosion comes in the form of “You Are So Young,” a melodic punk anthem and a rousing call to arms for the younger generation. Urgent, energetic, and full of heart, it’s a powerful opening salvo.

Up next is a bold choice—a cover of The Selecter’s classic “Three Minute Hero.” While the rendition doesn’t stray too far from the original, it’s played with affection and respect, serving as both a tribute and a reminder of the roots from which Los Fastidios draw some inspiration.

“Heart of Woman” follows, bringing a more traditional ska sound into play. It’s a joyful, danceable tune with a timeless quality, showing the band’s ability to switch moods without losing momentum.

Then comes “True Rebel,” an anthemic, straight-up punk track. This is Los Fastidios in their purest form: pounding drums, razor-sharp riffs, and lyrics that beg to be shouted back by a crowd. It’s the kind of track that will no doubt be a fan favourite in a live setting.

“Skabillyboogie” changes the tempo with a dash of rock ‘n’ roll flair folded into a ska framework. It’s a fun, bouncy number that radiates good times.

“A Rebel, Not a Fool” returns to punchier punk territory, echoing the spirit of Cock Sparrer’s “Because You’re Young.” With a big chorus and fist-in-the-air attitude, it’s another track destined for singalong status at gigs.

“Why Don’t You Eat Your Cat?” might raise eyebrows with its title, but it’s a provocative and valid question that addresses the worlds meat-eating habits—a pro-vegan message wrapped in sharp ska stylings. With the band having received negative comments online for their support of a meat-free diet, it’s a credit to them that they have stuck to their guns. Not being a vegan myself does not distract me from the fact this is a great Ska tune and fair play to them for singing about something they feel strongly about.

“Sometimes Good Girls Don’t Wear White” is up next and serves up a bright, upbeat ska tune led by punchy keys and brass.

With “Non cambiare mai” (“Never Change” in English I think), the band throws Italian-language punk right at you. It’s raw, loud, and full of attitude.

“Music for Peace” slows the pace with a more traditional ska/reggae beat. Sung mostly in Italian paired with the the English chorus line “Make music not war, fight the system not the people!”—it’s a track that delivers a powerful message through irresistible rhythm that is hard to argue with!

Switching things up yet again, “Une chanson pour toi” (“A Song For You”) sees the band delve into the French language. This track veers into a sort of folk-punk territory, reminiscent of bands like “The Men They Couldn’t Hang”, it’s an unexpected but warmly received curveball that adds depth to the album’s genre palette. (and I never thought I’d ever get to mention those guys on my ska site – so thanks for that at least!)

The penultimate track “Warriors” brings back the punk anthem vibe with more chest-thumping energy before the album closes with title track “Lovesteady”, a warm, rootsy reggae sound that’s both laid-back and uplifting—a perfect wind-down after the genre-hopping journey the album takes you on.

Lovesteady is a testament to Los Fastidios’ versatility and fearless creativity. Ska, punk, Oi!, reggae, rock ‘n’ roll—even folk punk—they touch on it all without ever sounding disjointed. It’s almost as if a Los Fastidios album is like a box of chocolates…(you can finish that line yourself!)

The album is available on CD & Vinyl at the bands online shop here:
LOS FASTIDIOS – “Lovesteady” | Kob Records

It’s also available on streaming sites. You can check out the band, who are currently in Germany as part of a massive tour, on their Facebook Page.