Lyric discussion by musicsuperhero1 

Cover art for 1-2-8 lyrics by Mighty Mighty Bosstones, The

This is about ska-core...and/or the Bosstones themselves.

The term "ska-core" was coined in reference to the Bosstones style/sound. They didn't set out to create a genre or sub-genre. The fans and music business folk referred to the Bosstones sound as "ska-core" because they blended ska music with hardcore (punk, metal, thrash).

So it's about their sound...

You could also say it's about the band itself. They're known for touring and for their great live shows.

"its not the recipe it's gotta be the cooks"

and as Louis mentioned, no one was touring like the Bosstones, and I'd add that they were known for their live shows. Others can't compete. So "if you can't stand the heat in the kitchen, get out! It will increase!"

@musicsuperhero1 ALSO, when asked about their sound, they would often reply "we're just trying to be the best Bosstones we can be." ...in other words, "we're just us."