Bootleg

Begged, Borrowed & Stole

Self Released

(Bootleg MySpace)

There is definitely some good stuff coming out of the South East Coast lately and you can now add Bootleg to that list. Even though it mostly sticks to the solid reggae rock formula, Begged, Borrowed & Stole still manages to rise above the norm with its jamming own style.

This three-piece brings a healthy mix of reggae, rock and ska across the 13 tracks. Opening with the dub influenced Dangerous, it is a bold move and it sets the tone for an adventurous ride. The horn backed Born Jamaican is a fun ska track which rocks out like a son-of bitch and would make even Fishbone proud. However, the surf punk instrumental Ave. C is where the album makes its most rocking peak.

However, overall my favorite moments are when the band takes it down a notch and lightly grooves through tracks like Angel Child, Abby’s Song and All I Need and the album’s swan song, the carefree Central America - an effective way to end the party. It also must be noted the hometown tribute Holmes Beach, is played with such joy and conviction it too is a definite album highlight.

There is certainly plenty to enjoy here and while it might not have been an instant classic for me, through its subtle originality, over the past few weeks I have found myself more and more dropping this Bootleg CD in the old stereo.

Reviewed by Pilipo