About this album

Sound: "A vibrant fusion of ska and punk that captures the frenetic energy of youth and social commentary."

Where they were

Released in 2000, 'Pay Attention' was The Mighty Mighty Bosstones' sixth studio album, following their commercial breakthrough with 'Let's Face It'. At this point, they were solidifying their legacy within the ska-punk scene while exploring more diverse musical themes.

Why it matters

'Pay Attention' marked a significant moment in the band's career as it continued to receive critical acclaim and maintained the band's relevance in an evolving music landscape. The album features tracks that resonate with personal and social themes, showcasing the band's ability to blend humor and seriousness, which further influenced later bands in the genre.

Essential tracks

  • "The Skeleton Song" — This track exemplifies the band's signature style by combining catchy melodies with darker lyrical themes, making it a standout for its introspective yet upbeat nature.
  • "High School Dance" — With its nostalgic lyrics reflecting on teenage experiences, this song captures the essence of adolescence and is a fan favorite for its relatable storytelling.
  • "Riot on Broad Street" — This track showcases the band's punk roots with energetic instrumentation while addressing social issues, demonstrating their commitment to using music as a platform for commentary.

Release Date

January 1, 2000

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

  1. 1 Let Me Be 3:52
  2. 2 The Skeleton Song 3:00
  3. 3 All Things Considered 4:01
  4. 4 So Sad to Say 3:10
  5. 5 Allow Them 3:27
  6. 6 High School Dance 2:52
  7. 7 Over the Eggshells 2:30
  8. 8 She Just Happened 2:54
  9. 9 Finally 3:46
  10. 10 I Know More 3:08
  11. 11 Riot on Broad Street 3:16
  12. 12 One Million Reasons 3:01
  13. 13 Bad News and Bad Breaks 3:33
  14. 14 Temporary Trip 2:27
  15. 15 Where You Come From 2:46
  16. 16 The Day He Didn’t Die 3:29
  17. 17 Together 3:02
  18. 18 Just as Much 3:05