Many of the giants of the golden age of ska and reggae have fallen, but many still skank among us. Rock steady and ska pioneer the Skatalites has survived the passing or retirement of most of its original members, with only septuagenarian alto saxophonist Lester Sterling and singer Doreen Shaffer connecting the band to its glory days of the early '60s. But because the Skatalites has always been a shifting association of musicians, adaptable as the backing band on scores of essential reggae and ska recordings, its reunions and regroupings have been consistently satisfying — and its current live show a potent, joyous celebration of blistering brass and relentless rhythms.
What to Wear: Leave your tight two-tone digs at home; come dressed to dance — wild and free — or don't come at all.
