Album Review: Melbourne Ska Orchestra - Melbourne Ska Orchestra

Any self-respecting chamber orchestra knows that they can't just get by playing only one of Mozart's or Bach's symphonies – classical music is a far more diverse and complex beast than that, and there would be no justice trying to define it off only one composer's idea of what “classical” sounds like. Likewise, the Nicky Bomba-led Melbourne Ska Orchestra aren't here to haphazardly represent the storied history of the politically-charged and socially-driven genre that is ska. Rather, on their self-titled debut release, they deliver an expansive, polished and ultra-fun journey through ska's multiple waves and global influences.

Perhaps it makes sense the album begins – with a live-mix, instrumental rendition of the Get Smart theme – where most people's familiarity with ska ends ie. the third-wave, punk-inspired style championed by so many late-'90s outfits. From here, guitarist/vocalist/band leader Bomba is our primary guide through foundations of downbeat, organ-laden reggae (Time To Wake Up), low-key salsa influences (The Diplomat), mariachi and Latino flavours (Dean Went To Mexico, He's A Tripper) and even songs steeped in funk and the jazz age (Third Time Lucky).

Naturally, the horns are the heroes of the piece. Trumpets, trombones and saxophones of all sizes expertly spar with, dance around and bolster each other, providing dexterous spectacle as solo instruments as well as playing a fundamental melodic and harmonic role. At a shade less than 60 minutes, the MSO have plenty of time to ensnare you in their infectious net – so if you're not wholeheartedly joining in on the gang vocal-driven revelry of closer Singalong Day, it's possible ska is not for you. For everyone else, this homegrown gem is heartily recommended.