Joe Gittleman has certainly kept himself busy since the beloved Mighty Mighty Bosstones disbanded just last year.

In June of 2023, he released a split with New Orleans new-tone band Bad Operation and now he has announced a new studio project called The Kilograms. Partnering with folk singer-songwriter, Sammy Kay, The Kilograms write soulful ska songs and their first single ‘Who Am I’ is a promising taste of what’s to come. The Kilograms was born out of Joe and Sammy meeting at a festival and staying in touch over the years. After trading song ideas, the duo decided to work on music together and have plans for an upcoming record. ‘Who Am I’ is available on a benefit compilation called ‘Black Sand Relief: A Benefit For Michelle Ska And The People Of Maui’. Michelle is a resident of Lahaina and was able to escape the flames with a car and the clothes on her back. Her home and the school where she worked as a special educator were completely destroyed. The goal is to not only help Michelle, but the Maui community as a whole. Half of the proceeds will go to a local Maui charity. The ska focused comp was put together by group a of friends, musicians, and others with deep ties to both Michelle and the Ska/Punk community. Led by Jeff Loddo, a long time friend of Michelle’s; with huge assistance from Matt Flood of Asbestos Records, Sammy Kay and Joe Gittleman of The Kilograms and Chris Malone of The Pandemics. The compilation is available now as a digital release with a vinyl release on the way and includes tracks from The Kilograms, Westbound Train, The Slackers and more.

FFO: The Mighty Mighty Bosstones, The Pietasters, The Aggrolites, Westbound Train

Album Credits:
Joe Gittleman – Bass, Guitar, Vocals
Sammy Kay – Guitar, Organ, Vocals
Jeff Rickels – Percussion

Mixed by Jay Duckworth
Mastered by John Hoffman at The Lodge

Album Art:
James Walker