Album, Single and EP Reviews


 

 

  Saturday Big Shop by Bison


Saturday Big Shop cover art

Artist: Bison
Title: Saturday Big Shop
Catalogue Number: Red Cloud Records
Review Format: CD
Release Year: 2008



Recently, a wave of truly bizarre pop acts have emerged in the UK. Bizarre, but nonetheless delightful. We've had Miyagi from Edinburgh, the Zonules of Zinn from Glasgow and now, from Sheffield, we have Bison. This, their fourth album, is a delightful effort. In an age when the reputation of ska lies in a state of some alarm, these guys sound like they can help it stand on its own two feet again.

We begin fairly low-key on "Stop Yer Moaning" but, by the time we get to the title track, you'll probably be on your feet. Think of Madness in their prime, drawing on more specific lyrical influences (as on "Big Trouble in Great Yarmouth"), and you're some way there. The lyrics are at times senseless, but bounce nicely alongside the music, which will infuriate those who don't like to dance. They will dance like they've had one too many. As we all know, everyone dances. It's just a matter of how many drinks it takes.

From start to finish, there's hardly a song on the album that doesn't try and make you dance and, in an age when The Great Depression never seems too far away, it's refreshing to think that all you need to have a good night in is a few litre bottles of ASDA cider and a Bison CD.

Credit is due to the band for the service done to an ailing genre, for both the lyrical content and individual musicianship impress greatly. Only now discovering the band is somewhat disappointing as they seem to have taken a permanent hiatus. So, do what's right, and find yourself a copy of this album!


www.allhailthebison.com
Reviewer:
Review Date: November 25 2008