'Energy' signals start of punk, ska movement

The year 1987 ... seems like a long time ago. I was a mere two years of age, far from old enough to understand punk music, let alone music in general aside from Raffi and Sesame Street, if anything. But in 1987, four young kids would start a band that would set the standard for punk and ska music for years to come. \nOnly lasting two years and only putting out one LP, Operation Ivy is a household name for anyone that listens to punk and ska music, and many of today's heavy hitters include them as an influence. "Energy" is easily one of the best punk/ska albums of all time, placing Operation Ivy in the same territory as the Clash, Sex Pistols, and The Ramones. \n"Energy" is filled to the very brim with 27 songs, none longer than 3 minutes, and I can honestly say not a damn one is skippable. The guitars are catchy and simple. The drumming is tight. The vocals are raw, yet understandable and emotional. Nothing is overproduced, the recording quality is a little poor, but keeps things raw. The songs vary in tempo, and shift from fast and punk to slower and ska-oriented (the oboe in "Bad Town" is amazing). You'll never get bored, and when the CD's over, you'll have to hit play again and do it all over. \nThese songs are about controversial issues, and how justice should be implemented through unity. This isn't just a CD; this is a movement. Not just entertainment, but a way of life. It's hard to fathom the impact that these 27 tracks have had. \nOperation Ivy's legacy lives on. Bassist Matt Freeman and guitarist Tim Armstrong went on to form punk stalwarts Rancid (Armstrong also started a side project, The Transplants), and singer Jesse Michaels went on to form the more mellow punk/ska outfit Common Rider. This album means a great deal to me, and if you're into punk and ska and haven't already heard it (which would signal that there's something horribly wrong with you), then what the hell are you doing? Get it sorted!