Nicky Bomba’s Fave Tracks From Melbourne Ska Orchestra’s Epic ‘One Year Of Ska’

You’d struggle to find a band as hard working as Aussie favourites Melbourne Ska Orchestra, who celebrated the release of their epic One Year Of Ska boxset earlier this month with a set at Bluesfest.

The project saw the outfit record 52 songs in one year, and now that the dust has settled, frontman Nicky Bomba takes us through his favourites from the release ahead of final launch shows in Melbourne and Sydney this weekend.

“The One Year Of Ska boxset is a great achievement for us in many ways,” Bomba said. 

“To organise a band this size is a logistical nightmare at the best of times, but the love and positive energy that exists for what we are doing is powerful. We wanted to make a song splash and give ourselves a serious challenge to write and record a great body of work. 

“Late-night studio sleep-ins, souvlaki and coffee diets, a finely-tuned roster system and a bucket of madness and you get the feel of what was going on. I think the quality of material and the stand-up production is a testimony to the talent the band holds. We might hold off for a couple of years before we try that again!”

Carry Go Bring Come (Justin Hinds & The Dominoes cover)

“Rumour has it this song is about gossip. But you didn't hear that from us. Enjoy the tune but don't tell anyone. Justin Hinds and his vocal trio had a beautiful blending of voices that struck a chord with the whole orchestra. The title means 'gossip' and is a warning to those who speak ill of others. The trio recorded many great songs which all stand the test of time. Initially a Duke Reid production, this song is a staple amongst ska lovers worldwide.

Skippy

“It’s a little known fact that certain members of the orchestra were able to decipher the correct dialogue of Skippy The Bush Kangaroo in the iconic series. Much of what Skippy was trying to relay was the fact that he was NOT a ‘bush’ kangaroo at all. Truth be told he grew up in an inner Melbourne suburb (not too far from Brunswick) and was doing his Masters in Eastern Philosophy. The acting job was just a part time income stream to assist with his research.”

Perfect Storm

“This song is called Perfect Storm and we're really proud it!"

Magnolia Springtime

“The final track of the 52 songs series. It had been an epic year of music for all at MSO HQ! 52 songs in 52 weeks! What an amazing ride. We wanted people to kick back and enjoy our final tune as the sun sets on 2018 and a bright new year edges over the horizon.”

Check out theGuide for all upcoming tour dates.