I am just a sucker for good ska, and "The Smooths" are just that. Produced by The Bosstones' Joe Gittleman, "No Brakes" is a great second effort. Incorporating all the elements of a good ska band, "The Smooths" just radiate with a fantastic reggae/pop sound that is served up just raw enough to give it some balls.

Tommy Gilhuley (vocals), nails each line with an honesty and drive that you just do not get from many bands anymore. His voice is melodic enoug h to be light on the ears, and coarse enough to keep it interesting. Tim Hoening (tenor sax), Jenny Stillwaggon (baritone sax) and Tim Doscher (trombone) drive each song with some really great horn work, which, in my opinion, is the backbone of any ska band. In the case of "The Smooths," it is quite evident that the backbone of the band is not only strong, it's forcing the rest of the "body" to dance. Jeb Crandall's organ and piano work give each song fantastic depth and texture (I'm a sucker for that hammond organ sound anyway). Jeff Brigman (bass) is the anchor of this band. His bass lines flow and trill with a sonic boom quality. Ben Treat (guitars) and Curtis Reaves (drums) move the record along, providing the beat to skank to.

There are so many great songs on this record. "History's Burning" is ablaze with hard ass reggae style. I immediately fell in love with this song. "One More" follows up with almost a Bosstones slow groove sound. "CCTX" swells with a bright melody and kind harmonies. "Return Of The Dragon" mixes ska with a lounge sound that creates a truly interesting instrumental piece. "Look Out" shines on the record with some amazing guitar work. Treat works overtime to create this rolling flow of notes at breakneck speed.

Spawned from the hallowed halls of Maryland's Loyola College in late 1993, "The Smooths" have already recruited a strong Baltimore- Washington following. Through last year's and this year's WARPED Tour performances, they are making a national splash as well. "No Breaks" is, quite simply put, a must own record. I defy you to find one song that you do not like on this record. It's just that good. Expect amazing things from this band. These guys will be more than just a band wagon band. "The Smooths" are poised to be the taste makers.