This compilation, ‘New York New Tone‘, made up of bands strictly from the Northeast (CT, NY, NJ, PA), was dropped by new label Root Down Sounds in December 2023 and has been getting a lot of playtime by us (and rightfully so!).
Whether you are a new ska listener or have been listening for what seems like forever, this one is bound to have some songs on it that will leave you impressed and eager to hear more of what the artists have to offer. After all, compilations are a great way for fans to discover new bands!
I’m pretty sure this was the goal of the label (and this comp) – to help get some lesser known but seriously kick-ass bands get the recognition they deserve! The bands all put so much into building up a local fan base and play tons of shows for them, but I’d say they are ready to step it up a notch and cross some more borders!
It is really nice for us to hear some bands from our local scene on the project, like Joker’s Republic, 13 Cavities, The End Times, Take Today, and The Upfux. Philly & NJ represent! We want to see the world love them like we do!
In addition, after listening to this a few times, we were intrigued to listen to more from several bands that were newer to us, including The Agonizers, Beat Stu, Half Dizzy, and Not From Concentrate (amongst others). We absolutely love to discover new bands and have Root Down Sounds and New York New Tone to thank for getting them into our earholes!
Overall, this is solid comp that includes various types of ska from up and coming bands, both signed and unsigned. We hope to see it on wax at some point, but for now head on over to bandcamp or YouTube and give it a chance! Share it with your friends, follow the bands, and be sure to tell us one band you discovered! We’d love to share feedback with the label :).
If you are in the Northeast and prefer physical media, you can also snag a CD from any of the bands on the comp at their local shows! Support your local ska bands and scene, always!
The SKAgazine 