More than any other Maltese band past or present, The Rifffs will always fill a special chapter in local music history, over and above their brief flirtation with indie chartdom in the UK. As you may have well guessed, the reason, apart from the ultra-infectious Ska anthem Dance Music for the 80’s Depression, is that the band had an internal musical chemistry that clicked perfectly. Proof of this was their hugely acclaimed comeback last year, which consolidated The Rifffs’ position as one of the top bands on the island thanks to a brand new song, Life of Crime, and several explosive live gigs.

Now, The Rifffs are back for another round of energetic live performances and have just released a brand new single for the occasion. The new song, Jack The Ripper, is another straight-up dance-floor firecracker of a tune, moulded from the same Ska elements that have been part and parcel of The Rifffs’ musical vision from the early days. Inspired by the notorious serial killer of the same name, the single is a lighter (as in less intense) account of the stories jotted down in history books. With added brass for extra punch, Jack The Ripper is an effective reflection of Britain’s brief but significant Two-Tone era and, for anyone who’s up for a good old skank on the dance floor, an invitation to the band’s upcoming live gigs, starting with the Farsons Beer Festival on Sunday, 29 July. For more information about the band, visit www.therifffs.com