Operation Ivy’s Dave Mello on Helping Define Ska and Recording Energy: Podcast

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There is little dispute that Operation Ivy are one of the greatest ska bands to ever do it. This week, In Defense of Ska crew is elated and proud to sit down with the legendary punk band’s drummer Dave Mello for a chat about the band’s history and legacy. Listen above, or wherever you get your podcasts .

For a band that’s so highly regarded, Operation Ivy’s lifespan was surprisingly short. The act broke up just two years after their 1987 formation, and as of yet, there’s been no reunion. Despite that, their lone album, 1989’s Energy , has remained a staple of the genre.

Dave Mello discusses the early days of the band, touching on what made the act so special and why they decided to bring it to an end. He recalls their first shows, their one and only American tour, and the long recording process of Energy . He also discusses playing with bands like Fugazi and The Dead Milkmen, as well as Operation Ivy’s ultimate impact on ska culture. That includes inspiring Green Day, and Mello shares his reaction to Billie Joe Armstrong name-dropping him during their Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction.

Listen Operation Ivy’s Dave Mello talk about all of this and more above, and make sure to like, review, and follow the series wherever you get your podcast . Fellow ska lovers can also get early and ad-free episodes of the show by joining the IDOS Patreon , and don’t forget to check out all the Consequence Podcast Network series here .

Additionally, you can support the In Defense host Aaron Carnes by purchasing a copy of his book, In Defense of Ska . The 2nd, expanded edition will be released in October 2024. Co-host Adam Davis also has a band called Omnigone, whose latest record, Against the Rest , was released earlier this year.

Operation Ivy’s Dave Mello on Helping Define Ska and Recording Energy: Podcast
Consequence Staff