Three years ago, the band Nigel Mustafa called it quits.

For nearly a decade, the Snohomish County-based band had staked its name on singing punny, funny songs that were equal parts comical and musical.

"We didn't think we'd ever get back together," said Steve Parris, the band's lead singer.

That changed about a year ago.

Nigel Mustafa was asked to play a memorial concert for a friend who'd died unexpectedly, Parris said.

"In the weeks before the show, we began rehearsing under the impression that this was a one-off," he said.

But during the rehearsals Parris shared new songs, a diversion from the comic material, and the band again clicked.

They returned to the stage and the studio.

Now Nigel Mustafa is releasing its fourth album, "Happy Friendship." It's a blend of reggae, rock and a bit of ska.

The band is hosting a CD release party at 8 tonight at Mirkwood, 117 E. Division St., Arlington. There's a $7 cover.

For more information about the band, go to www.nigelrocks.com.



Jackson Holtz: 425-339-3447; jholtz@heraldnet.com.