Review
Have Nots
Proud

Ska-Punk is a loaded genre. That is to say there are only a handful of bands who could balance on the tight rope most tend to fall on either side more often than not. So needless to say for every Clash record there are 3 subpar version of Less Than Jake as well. So when I hear something described as skapunk i envision awkward white guys trying to be rhythmic and angry at the same time.

The Havenots, In the past, proved that they are capable of walking that tight rope. Generally they tend toward a more Rancid style of things inserting mid paced reggae or ska style songs as respite from the amped up punk that they generally play. So after the last LP Serf City USA the band toured and focused in on a new record. What we get is Proud a second full length that follows the formula very well.

The band do very well with sing along hooks and simple riffs. This leans them more toward different genres throughout the album. Sometimes the band may insert the odd rock and roll riff, or maybe and organ blaring in the mix. These little bits help to make the songs more seperate from each other rather than going by in a blur the album moves at its own pace giving the listener a couple different looks at the same band.

The instruments run their course and stay in their own little individual pocket never really taking lead generally. While the guitar may get a solo from time to time it certainly is not the norm by any stretch. The rhythm section while strong is merely there. There is nothing that really makes them stick out. The things that made Rancid and The Clash so special was the rhythm section's ability to take the lead and create individual and interesting backdrops even when the guitars stayed simple.

What it comes down to is that The Havenots are still the same band as before. When they try to spread their wings a bit more they don't fail but they they don't make a statement either. The songs are generally good with decent hooks but nothing amazing. If you enjoy Rancid this record might do well for you otherwise it would be an enjoyable listen and a signpost on the road The Havenots are taking into the future.