About 10 years ago, I was in my favorite Norfolk, Va., gear haunt, checking out guitars, basses and the like. The old, poor musician routine -- checking out a Parker Fly and leaving with some D'addarios...

Well, the store had a knack for playing some killer music. And, I heard this go-go track playing there that threw me. Coming from the DC "errrea," it was uncommon to hear go-go playing somewhere else, and I had to stop my shopping to take a listen. I heard funk but some edgy rock being thrown in, for good measure.

I inquired about the band and was floored to see that the mystery band and LP in question:



Fishbone's "Give a Monkey a Brain..." album.

Well, on said disc is a gem of a song, "Lemon Meringue." Ska horns bounce off a funk beat and groovily complex bassline (which I learned recently. ). Soulful vocals and sweet guitar power this kiss-off. I immediately was hooked.

I hear this is among Fishbone's best tunes. I'm not surprised.


"Gotta let the tastebuds blossom
Sunny side never lost 'em
Easy over born to be clever.
So, I conclude you'll never lose."

off the heezy

Oh yeah, definitely a juicy bass line on that track! Cool soundtrack for some fun memories!

Unfortunately, this would be the last solid album for Fishbone.

My fav fishbone album. End the reign is sick.

'Lemon Meringue' is a solid track, although I wouldn't number it amongst Fishbone's best. Although it is true that 'GAMAB...' was the last solid Fishbone album. And the last one that contained the original lineup. For my money, you can't really go wrong with any of the first five albums. If you love ska, it's a bonus.

Mos Def one of thier best. It's like a new wave funk/ska/Earth Wind & Fire type feel.

It's uplifting and manic all at the same time. I really feel "Give a Monkey A Brain' is one of their best only send to Truth and Soul

violator said:

Agreed. Love Fishbone. They turned me around musically when Truth and Soul came out. I don't think thev've topped 85-91 era but they still are releasing some good stuff here and there. Plus they are constantly touring and are great live.
Lemon Meringue also features Funkadelic's own Billy "Bass" Nelson helping with vocal arrangements and such. Great song and IMO, last great album. Still dig 'em though.

I have not listened 2 that stuff in a while. Time 2 pull it out.