“We are what have always been—a roots reggae band with a message of positivity for anyone who listens with their heart.” An apt description by David “Dread” Hinds, founding member and main song writer of the Grammy winning UK reggae ensemble Steel Pulse. The group formed in 1975 by a trio of school mates from Handsworth Wood Boys School in Birmingham, England. Home to a large number of post World War II Jamaican immigrants and several emerging Reggae artists including UB40 and Musical Youth, they were initially denied home town Caribbean venue gigs due to their Rastafarian religious beliefs. Soon they were touring with Punk Rock luminaries including the Stranglers, XTC, The Clash, and The Police, as well as established Reggae act Burning Spear.
The musical content combines hook laden catchy song writing, dance able grooves, tight arrangements and vocal harmonies, and highly conscious lyrics. Their live performances are an entertaining and uplifting ride through new and classic material from a deep catalogue. In my experience they never disappoint.
Local Reggae artist Makisi is opening the show.
Steel Pulse plays The Depot on Tuesday night. Tickets are still available $25 in advance through Smithtix or $30 day of show at the Depot’s box office after 5 pm. Doors open at 7 and the show starts at 8 pm.
Grab your best red, gold and green tam, get feelin’ irie, and check out some “Reggae Ragamuffin Rub-a-Dub” with one of the best.
