Slightly Stoopid

There's a stove adorning the cover of Slightly Stoopid's b-sides, rarities and unreleased tracks release, Slightly Not Stoned Enough to Eat Breakfast Yet Stoopid, and the image is strangely appropriate. For years, the Ocean Beach six-piece has been cooking up a sun-drenched surfer's buffet of reggae rhythms, punk rock melodies and uplifting lyrics. In addition to outtakes from previous recording sessions and some brand spankin' new tracks, this album also features cuts from the band's limited edition EP. It actually spans the band's career quite generously, providing a comprehensive look at their creative trajectory. Traditionally, these guys have always musically soaked up Southern California, and Slightly Not Stoned is no exception.

Without a doubt, Sublime still comes to mind on anthemic tracks like "I Would Do For You" and "Thinkin Bout Cops." Nevertheless, these unreleased gems show just how versatile Slightly Stoopid truly are. Take the anti-drug ethos of melody-driven new track "No Cocaine" or the one-two wave break of "Train 1" and "Train 2." Slightly Stoopid remain completely unfettered creatively, and that's instantly apparent from these songs.

Of course this collection of tunes has the requisite stony aesthetic, but that's also a part of living in SoCal. Released via the band's own independent label Stoopid Records, Slightly Stoopid once again show they don't need some big label machine to put out quality jams. Of the new songs, "Circle House Blues" stands out the most, showcasing an instrumental sensitivity that can be both warm and hypnotic all at once. Ultimately, Slightly Not Stoned has all of the ingredients for satisfying sunny reggae punk. It's best served on the beach.

—Rick Florino
07.23.08