Arts and Entertainment
October 16, 2025
LP Out November 7, 2025 – A Soulful Evolution in Ska, Rocksteady & Classic Soul
Boston, MA - Acclaimed ska and soul collective Westbound Train have shared “Slippery Slope,” the second single from their long-awaited new album, Sing the Ghost Away, arriving November 7, 2025. The record marks a bold and deeply resonant evolution for the band-an inspired return that reaffirms their place as torchbearers of modern ska, rocksteady, and classic soul.
Produced by Obi Fernandez (vocals, trombone) and Eric Novod (drums), and mixed/mastered by Tim Panella, Sing the Ghost Away was recorded at The Relic Room in New York City. Pairing warm analog textures with inventive arrangements and nuanced sonic detail, the album delivers a confident, emotionally charged collection that feels both timeless and refreshingly new.
“‘Slippery Slope’ is a reminder to keep showing up, even when life feels heavy,” says Fernandez. “The truth is, it’s sweeter when we’re fully here-alive, aware, and present in the moment we’ve been given. We all wrestle with doubt and insecurity; none of us are alone in it. There’s a whole lot of us out here just trying to hold on, find our footing, and keep moving forward together.”
Standout tracks like the first single “L.M.A.”, “Keeper From the Start”, and “Slippery Slope” showcase Westbound Train’s sharpened songwriting and expanded sonic range, while a newly recorded version of “We All Need Rescue” breathes new life into a fan-favorite deep cut. Contributions from Anthony Abbinanti (percussion), horn players Rich Graiko and Carlos Menezes Jr., further enrich the band’s signature sound.
“‘L.M.A.’ is a tune about self-worth,” Fernandez explains. “On the surface it leans into a relationship story, but really it’s bigger than that. We all face moments of disappointment, and this song is a reminder that in those moments, the move is to self-start-to love yourself first. We can’t wait around for validation to motivate us.”
Stream “Slippery Slope” here: https://lnk.to/slipperyslope
Pre-order Sing the Ghost Away here: https://bio.to/westboundtrain
About Westbound Train
Formed in 2001 at Berklee College of Music, Westbound Train have built an international following with their infectious blend of ska, rocksteady, and soul. Influenced by icons like The Skatalites, Hepcat, Otis Redding, and The Slackers, the band became a staple of the U.S. ska circuit-sharing stages on The Vans Warped Tour, Summer of Ska, Rude Cat Festival, and more, while performing alongside genre heavyweights around the world.
Today, the lineup features Obi Fernandez, Rich Graiko (trumpet), Carlos Menezes Jr. (saxophone), Gideon Blumenthal (keyboards), Alex Brumel (guitar), Alex Stern (guitar), Thad Merritt (bass), and Eric Novod (drums). Beyond the stage, they’re fathers, sons, teachers, and community leaders-united by a shared passion for carrying forward a distinctly soulful vision of ska and reggae.
With Sing the Ghost Away, Westbound Train prove once again why they remain a cornerstone of the modern ska and soul revival: a band deeply grounded in tradition, yet always writing the next chapter.
Formats Available
- “Blood Orange” Color Vinyl (limited to 500)
- Signed Test Pressings (limited to 20)
- CD
- Digital Download/Streaming
- Bonus: “L.M.A. (Dub Remix)” Lathe Cut (limited to 50)
Upcoming Shows (Supporting Big D and the Kids Table)
- Oct 24 - Philadelphia, PA · Warehouse on Watts
- Oct 25 - New York, NY · The Sultan Room
- Oct 26 - Cambridge, MA · The Sinclair