Top Shelf, Fresh Album Releases

Punk, Ska, and Rock Collide with Fresh Album Releases

By Ace Hartmann | Racketeer Broadcast Association  |

September 20th is shaping up to be a landmark day for punk, ska, and reggae fans, with a wave of exciting album releases from established acts and rising stars alike. This date will see the release of four highly anticipated albums, each offering a unique take on their genre. From ska-infused optimism to politically charged punk, the diversity of sounds reflects the evolving landscape of contemporary music. Check out all the newest and upcoming album releases on our page here

The Calamatix – A Debut Born From Struggle California-based The Calamatix will unveil their self-titled debut album on Hellcat Records. Bringing together the nostalgic energy of Jamaican rocksteady and old-school ska, The Calamatix blend classic sounds with a fresh, contemporary twist. At the heart of the band is Raylin Joy, a singer-songwriter whose personal battles shaped the emotional core of the album. Joy, who co-wrote the record with punk legend Tim Armstrong, channeled her struggles with depression into uplifting, triumphant tracks about love and life.

Despite the darkness behind the music, The Calamatix’s debut radiates positivity. “At the end of the day, some of the best things are born out of terrible situations,” Joy says. With longtime musicians Adam Porris, William “Matty” Taylor, and Clarence “Pocket” Kidd III, The Calamatix have created a whirlwind of soulful rhythms and heartfelt melodies. The chemistry they share is palpable in the album’s high-energy ska rhythms and uplifting anthems, promising a powerful live experience for fans.

The Black Pacific – ‘Here Comes Our Wave’ Veteran punk rocker Jim Lindberg, frontman of Pennywise, returns with his side project The Black Pacific, releasing Here Comes Our Wave on Dine Alone Records. The album, recorded with drummer Alan Vega, was a deeply personal project for Lindberg. Packed with urgent, politically charged lyrics, it’s a reflection of today’s chaotic world, from hate groups to the growing impact of artificial intelligence.

Tracks like “I Think I’m Paranoid” and “No Fun” capture Lindberg’s frustration with societal issues, while more introspective songs like “Float Away” and “I Won’t Let You Down” explore love and survival. Lindberg’s raw energy and biting commentary shine through, making Here Comes Our Wave both a cathartic punk album and a call to action.

The Last Gang – ‘Obscene Daydreams’ Orange County’s The Last Gang return with their third album Obscene Daydreams, released via Fat Wreck Chords. The album delivers the band’s signature blend of fast-paced punk rock with deeply introspective lyrics. Frontwoman Brenna Red leads the charge with a mix of defiance and vulnerability, addressing topics from class struggle (“Dogmatic Capitalizer”) to LGBTQIA+ allyship (“The Others”).

Songs like “Rumors” embrace confidence and resilience, drawing inspiration from figures like Lady of Rage. With their relentless energy and bold storytelling, The Last Gang cements their status as one of the most dynamic voices in modern punk.

The Slackers – 12″  Socially Conscious Ska NYC’s ska-reggae legends The Slackers release a new 12” single What We Gonna Do Now? / Pick and Choose on Pirates Press Records. Known for their socially conscious lyrics, The Slackers don’t hold back on their latest tracks, asking tough questions about democracy, authoritarianism, and societal division. “We are storytellers and collectors of memories,” explains saxophonist Dave Hillyard, whose band continues to blend personal and political themes seamlessly.

With this release landing amid a pivotal election year, The Slackers are encouraging fans to make their voices heard, not only through their music but at the ballot box. Their relentless touring schedule will bring these new songs to life across the U.S. and Europe, further cementing their reputation as one of the most influential ska acts in the world.

Racketeer Radio KFQX Celebrates New Releases Ace Hartmann, founder of the Racketeer Broadcast Association and host of the Hot Off The Press show on Racketeer Radio KFQX, is particularly excited about these September 20th releases. Racketeer Radio KFQX, which bridges jazz and punk rock, will feature music from The Calamatix, The Black Pacific, The Last Gang, and The Slackers in a special segment. “These bands represent the essence of where punk, ska, and reggae are headed,” says Hartmann, who has long championed independent and DIY artists. Hartmann’s passion for the scene makes Racketeer Radio KFQX the perfect place to discover these groundbreaking new records.

September 20th marks a vibrant moment in music, offering something for everyone—whether it’s The Calamatix’s ska-inspired resilience, The Black Pacific’s punk fury, The Last Gang’s fearless authenticity, or The Slackers’ call for justice. For fans of these genres, it’s a date not to be missed.