Skatalites, 229 The Venue

The originators of Ska, Rocksteady, and Reggae celebrate their 50th anniversary.

The irrepressible Skatalites began performing in Jamaica in 1964 and quickly became legendary, backing many of the most exciting artists of the day including Prince Buster, The Wailers (featuring Bob Marley), Peter Tosh, and Bunny Wailer.

Although all but one of the founding members have passed away, original alto sax man Lester “Ska” Sterling has assembled a group of outstanding musicians fronted by vocalist Doreen Shaffer. This line-up is maintaining the traditions and passion of the Skatalites initial run, with emphasis on musicianship and downright fun.

Playing a combination of old favourites like 1967’s ‘Guns of Navarone’ and newer material from 2012 album Walk with Me, the Skatalites have decades of songs to call upon.

Catchy and timeless, the Skatalites sound is an inescapable bundle of get-up-and-dance sure to get hips shaking and toes tapping.