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Although most people might know the phrase “catch 22” from the classic, satirical book by Thomas Heller, the expression also happens to be the name of the fast-paced, high energy ska/punk band from East Brunswick, New Jersey.

Catch 22 formed over a decade ago, and released their self-produced demo tape entitled “Rules of the Game” in 1996. Two years later, they were signed to Victory Records, the popular label infamous for signing fresh and up-and-coming pop/rock bands. After a few lineup changes, the band then released their EP “Washed Up!” which was a surprising success.

After months of national touring and opening for big name ska acts such as Reel Big Fish, the band continued to be plagued with bad luck as members left to pursue other options. Scrambling to replace the newly vacant positions, while continuing to tour and produce new albums is not the simplest of tasks, but the band carried it out quite successfully.

Catch 22’s current lineup, which consists of six members, incorporate saxophone, trumpet, and trombone, among others, into their music. Although these instruments are common in ska/punk bands, Catch 22 put an edgy spin on their music with thrashing guitars and fast-paced vocals to match.

Despite the frequent lineup changes, the band continued to produce solid pieces of work and by 2006, they released their newest album, “Permanent Revolution.” Although their recent tunes have evolved quite distinctively over the years, their fan-base remains strong and loyal to this legendary band. The positive response to this latest record was impressive and most would call it their best yet, though, there are still some skeptics in the midst.

The band’s music is known for being fast-paced and full of meaning, and this latest record is no different. It is a concept album based around the life of Leon Trotsky, one of the foremost figures in the Russian Revolution.

Kevin Gunther, trumpet player and vocalist for the band, thinks it’s their best record yet, and is pleased with the turn out, but is still well aware of the fans who are against concept albums were turned off by this latest release.

“There are always a bunch of people that have negative stuff to say about what we do but that has never stopped us before,” said Gunther in an interview with absoslutepunk.net. “There are so many bands doing completely unoriginal records and people kiss their asses but we go out and make a completely original record that might make you think a little and have some fun and catch heat for it.”

Fan critics aside, Catch 22 have always been a highly unique and independent band. Their horn-driven, uber-catchy music really has something for everybody and seems to take its influences from various genres of music. Many might be surprised by the range on their latest record and will find touches of reggae, hardcore, punk, and of course ska. It also might appeal to those who seek meaning and insight in the lyrics of their favorite captivating, danceable songs.

Sharing the bill with Catch 22 this Friday night is the equally catchy and incredibly popular third wave ska band Big D and the Kids Table. This politically driven unit formed in 1995 in Boston, Massachusetts. Big D teamed with Springman Records and Side One Dummy, but is known for having a “do it yourself” work ethic.

Extensive and relentless touring is another key aspect for which this band is known. They have averaged approximately 200 days of touring per year and have supported shows with other big name ska/punk-rock bands such as Streetlight Manifesto, Mighty Mighty Bosstones, The Bouncing Souls, Anti-Flag, and more. Big D’s loyal, cult-like following, combined with their hard work and ceaseless touring schedule, have been an important contributing factor to the band’s success.

Although Big D has released well over a dozen records and EPs, their latest release in 2007 “From Beijing to Boston” on Bad News Records and “Strictly Rude” on SideOne Dummy, are easily their most popular to date. They include insanely catchy beats and driving guitars combined with well-placed trombones and trumpets to produce amusing yet laid-back beats that have proven to get their audiences moving.

Musically and lyrically, “Stricly Rude” is also their most mature to date, and really portrays the band’s dedication to their passion.

Catch 22, Big D and the Kids Table with opening acts Five Across the Eyes and Restitution, will be playing the Pearl Street Club in Northampton, this Friday, March 28. The show starts at 7 p.m., and tickets are $15 at the door.

Michelle Abbasciano can be reached at [email protected]