Skankin' Pickle: A ska-punk band from the late 80's-early 90's that were pretty sweet. They had a bit of funk and punk goin' on, too. I think they were mostly self-funded, too. Mike Park went on to run "Asian Man Records," a label that a number of ska bands have signed to.

The Chinkees: Mike Park's band after Skankin' Pickle. I don't think they're around anymore, as per Mike Park has started a solo career, apparently.

MU330: Ska Punk band who had a few albums on Asian Man Records. They can be a lot of fun.

The Pietasters: A bit more on the traditional ska side, this band is also sweet, and a lot of fun.

The Mad Caddies: Their sound has changed a bit over time. Their second and third album had an almost metal sound to it, but their latest album is kinda swingish (which has always been present, I guess, actually.) I highly recommend the album "Duck and Cover."

The Scholars/Telegraph: There were a few bands back in the day that went by the name "Skalars," "Scholars," or some variation of (I'm not sure of this one's exact spelling.) This particular band later went on to be known "Telegraph." I have their best of from the years they went by "The Scholars," and they're pretty awesome. They have a lot of fast, punk-like stuff, and they remind me a lot of Less Than Jake, in particular the lead singer. I'm not sure if they're still around or not.

If you don't mind listening to CHRISTIAN music (Oh noes!) I would also recommend:

Five Iron Frenzy: Basically one of my favorite bands ever. Before Five Iron, like three of them were in a metal band, and the influence shows a little bit. They had a large following of fans, not just christian. Reese Roper is the man. Even though he's a little bit crazy (aren't we all?)

The Insyderz: Ska-core band. They have some pretty worshippy stuff, but they also have some pretty heavy stuff mixed in there. They spent a night hanging out with Dennis Rodman one time, so they have a song about him, too.

One band who has influenced a number of ska bands, but who aren't ska: Oingo Boingo, and before that, "The Mystic Knights of the Oingo Boingo." Danny Elfman fronted this band. They rock, even if they're a bit 80's. Anyhoo...

Wuv, Yer Mom