The English Beat, and Why You Should Care

Legendary ska revivalists The English Beat will be bringing a resurrected line-up to The Magic Bag in Ferndale on May 20th, and CJAM has your chance to attend this potentially once-in-a-lifetime show for free!

The English Beat (or The Beat, as they are known in their home country) formed in the 1978 in Birmingham, England. Already intent on mixing reggae with the swingy, skiffle-sound that had worked so well for the Beatles, the band's sound began to expand as new members brought in new influences. Backup vocalist Ranking Roger became a pioneer in bringing what was referred to as "toasting" to a UK audience (toasting = talking over a beat laid down by a DJ. You can see where this will become important in the years to come). A saxophonist by the name of Saxa allowed the incorporation of ska instrumentation.

As their stock rose in England, most of their exposure in North America came from pioneering modern rock stations in the USA, like KROQ in Los Angeles. The band began referring to themselves as The English Beat state-side to avoid confusion with the American band of the same name. Alas, after three albums (two of which were Top 5 hits in the UK, with impressive showings in the US and Australia) the band split up in 1983. Perhaps as a testament to the band's influence and following, five compilation and best-of albums dedicated to the band have been released, two more than they ever released during their career. Members of The Beat would go on to form General Public and, probably more recognisably, Fine Young Cannibals. Today, The (English) Beat is considered one of the pioneers of the "2 Tone" style and regarded as one of the most entertaining groups from ska's second wave.



This version of the Beat features original vocalist/guitarist/songwriter Dave Wakeling with a fresh roster of musicians supporting him. Allegedly, there is new material forthcoming from this lineup, but, knowing their fan base, I suspect they'll be sticking to old favourites for this performance.

So, listen to Trapper Radio on Tuesday, May 11th from 2:30-4pm on CJAM 99.1FM (or www.cjam.ca) to win tickets for you and a guest!