Artist: Fishbone Album: The Reality of My Surroundings

Year: 1991
Duration: 0:0-1

A Critical Review of The Reality of My Surroundings by Fishbone

Fishbone in the 80s and 90s shook the world of Rock, R&B, and Ska with their unique sound. Known for blending genres, Fishbone's music is a product of their environment, growing up in Los Angeles, California. Their 1991 album The Reality of My Surroundings is a milestone in the growth of their discography. In this blog post, we will review this album and talk about the best songs, the most innovative parts, and provide an overall critique.

The genre of The Reality of My Surroundings is hard to define. Fishbone's eclectic style blends Punk, Funk, Ska, and Reggae. It is evident in the song Everyday Sunshine. The single is emblematic of a band that was both experimental and artistically accomplished. The album's theme is the struggle to survive the environment around you, exemplified by songs like Sunless Saturday, It's a Wonderful Life (Gonna Have a Good Time), and Fight the Youth.

One of the most innovative parts of the album is the combination of styles. Fishbone is known for their instrumentals like Pray to The Junkiemaker and The Warmth of Your Breath, which are full of jazz and funky grooves. With songs like Naz-Tee May'en and Bonin' in the Boneyard, the band showcases their ska roots. The album also features their more rock and punk side with songs such as Behavior Control Technician and So Many Millions.

The best songs of the album are a product of Fishbone's unique sound, using unconventional instruments and blendings of styles. The song Sunless Saturday is a prime example of this category. The song includes horns, high-energy guitar riffs, and an afro-beat rhythm, allowing fans to dance freely. Everyday Sunshine is another notable stand-out, featuring a bass groove and an excellent horn line that's sure to get listeners grooving.

While Fishbone's The Reality of My Surroundings is a great album for admiring their art and innovation, there's a criticism to it. The album suffers from weak lyrics and subpar vocal performances, especially in comparison to the intensity of the band's instrumental arrangements. While the lyrics add depth to the album's central theme of struggle, they don't always resonate with listeners or reach their full potential. This combination causes some parts of the album to feel underdeveloped compared to the rest.

In conclusion, Fishbone's The Reality of My Surroundings is a true classic that has withstood the test of time. Its unique blend of genres and unconventional instrumentals make it a standout in music history. The album, while not perfect, should be admired for its innovation and originality. Fishbone has a sound like no other, making them a true music legend that will continue to inspire future generations.