The Benjamins, Milwaukee's own, are giving fans an early Christmas gift -- a reunion show.

Following an acrimonious break up in 2002, the Benjamins have decided to relive their youth, for one night only. It is a chance for the band -- according to vocalist/guitarist Jay Stys -- to be "wreckless kids." Attendees can expect a "party," with the Benjamins emceeing the event.

The Benjamins formed in 1998, by Stys and guitarist Dan Hinz. After other members came and went, bassist Ben Perlstein, and drummer Jon Phillip cemented the line up.

After releasing "The Art of Disappointment" on Drive Thru Records, the band decided to go their separate ways. What exactly happened?

"Things got difficult quickly," says Stys. "There was a lot of pressure, debts, deadlines, that sort of thing. One day it was a huge deal to be driving to Green Bay for a show. A month later, we were driving to Los Angeles, meeting record label snakes."

Stys continues, "We had all this money thrown at us, new gear, a new van, and fancy recording studios. It happened so fast, and we lost perspective."

Selling the band was also a challenge. "They (the label) had no idea how to market a band like us, so were their little experiment. Their other bands were very cookie-cutter, and we were the black sheep."

Trials and tribulations aside, the Benjamins music is their calling card. On "Riverwest Creeps," Hinz strums a memorable solo, showing technical prowess. After a tender intro, the rest of the tune is a mix of sing-along chorus and power chords. "Sophia on the Stereo" is an excellent pop song, complete with a hum along guitar solo. "Sophia" tops anything Green Day or Blink 182 have put out recently. This is because -- while accessible -- Stys' voice has an edginess to it.

The band has a comfort level that comes out in their music. It is no surprise that they decide to get together and play once in awhile. How did this show come together?

"It was a drunk thing," says Stys. "It was a joke, someone called our bluff and booked a show. We're still good friends, and we've been through a lot together."

Perlstein is now in Minneapolis, working as the tour manager for Soul Asylum. Phillip is touring with Limbeck, and Hinz plays with Maritime.

The Benjamins play two shows on Dec. 17, both at Mad Planet. An all-ages show is at 5 p.m. with guests Molitor and Juiceboxxx. A 21 and over show commences at 10 p.m. with guests Modern Machines. Advance tickets are available at Atomic Records.