Ska at Full Throttle: Bombskare’s The Black & White Album Hits Hard and Never Lets Up
Scotland’s high-octane ska juggernaut Bombskare have long been known for their explosive energy, razor-tight musicianship, and a brass section that could wake the dead. Crowned winners of BBC’s UK’s Best Part-time Band competition in 2016, they’ve continued to build a fierce reputation as one of the most electrifying live acts on the circuit. With The Black & White Album, the band deliver an ambitious, sprawling 18-track double album that captures everything fans have come to love about them — and then some.
From the first punchy notes of “I, Superman”, you know you’re in for a ride. It’s an upbeat ska banger that launches the album with unrelenting energy, instantly setting the tone for what’s to come. The tempo takes a slight detour with “Privileged Man”, where the brass section really gets to shine. There’s a quirky, circus-like quality to it — still lively, but with a theatrical edge that hints at the band’s genre-bending potential.
“Living the Dream” picks the pace right back up, delivering pure, melodic ska that seamlessly flows into “Ghost in the Room” — a track that continues the album’s danceable momentum, built around catchy riffs and foot-tapping grooves.
Then comes “Man The Free Hand”, and the band momentarily take us away from the comfort zone of ska. It feels like something pulled from a Broadway stage, complete with dramatic brass and theatrical flair. Just as you begin to wonder where it’s headed, the ska rhythms explode back in, accompanied by a blazing harmonica — before fading again into that musical theatre vibe. It’s a whirlwind journey in one song.
“The Carnival” begins exactly as the title suggests, conjuring up the soundscape of a big top before launching into a full-bodied ska assault. It’s vivid and cinematic, fading out like clowns heading off into the sunset. The funk-infused “Case Unsolved” follows, showcasing Bombskare’s ability to pull off stylistic detours without ever losing their identity.
Just when you think you’ve heard the standout track, “The Feeling’s Gone” bursts in — a thunderous, dancefloor-ready tune that’ll have even the most stubborn feet moving. It’s a high point of the album, and one that encapsulates Bombskare’s infectious energy.
“Renaissance Man” keeps the tempo high, offering another bouncing, brass-laden track that could’ve easily been a grand finale. But we’re only halfway, and the best may still be ahead.
“You Will Not Regret This” takes us back to the 90s, echoing the sounds of the likes of The Loafers with a nostalgic yet fresh energy. Then “The Hand That Rocks The Dancefloor (For Lucy)” fuses heavy keyboards and a 60s pop sensibility with ska rhythms — a surprising combination that works brilliantly and stands as another one of the album’s gems.
“Mr Popularity” slightly dials things down while retaining that signature Bombskare optimism. It’s followed by “Turned Out I Was Wrong”, which might just be the crown jewel of the whole album. There’s something timeless in its delivery — confident, catchy, and undeniably fun.
The energy keeps pouring in with “You Can’t Come In”, another belter complete with a killer keyboard solo that adds to its charm. The brass-heavy “Your Call” follows, ensuring the party doesn’t let up — at this point, your daily step count has probably doubled and your ‘Fit-Bit’ undoubtedly needs recharging!
And just when you think you might get a breather, “Stranger To Reason” hits with yet another burst of ska dynamite, pushing the momentum ever further.
If you’ve been dancing along to the album then by now, you’re flagging — sweat dripping, feet throbbing — surely it’s time to ease up? Not a chance. “Thoughts And Prayers” rockets out of the gate at 100mph, reminding you why Bombskare have such a feared live reputation!
Mercifully, the final track, “21st Century Ska Superstars”, eases the throttle — but only just. It’s anthemic, bold, and drenched in brass, rounding off the album with the same fire it started with.
The Black & White Album is a tour de force — bold, playful, relentless, and executed with the kind of tight musicianship that few bands can match. It’s a testament to Bombskare’s evolution, creativity, and stamina. Eighteen tracks might seem ambitious, but they pull it off with flair, offering a sonic buffet that never overstays its welcome.
Ashamedly, I’ll admit I’ve never seen Bombskare live in all their years of playing — but after hearing this, that’s a wrong I’ll be correcting very soon.
The release is of course available on streaming sites, but you can pick up the double CD from the band themselves and ensure they get the best deal:
