The Skandalizers
Founding member Richard Sheldrake’s love for ska and early reggae began when he first heard classics like “My Boy Lollipop,” “Let Your Yeah Be Yeah,” and “The Israelites” on the radio as a child. Enthralled by the ska revival of the early ’80s and the inclusive spirit of the 2-tone movement, Richard spent years playing and touring with rock bands. Eventually, he became a jobbing guitarist, performing with various ska bands across the country, including the legendary 60s and 70s Skinhead Reggae band, Symarip.
Wanting a band closer to home that played the music he cherished, Richard teamed up with his good friend and former bandmate Pete Saunders (formerly of Dexys Midnight Runners and Bad Manners). Together, they assembled a fantastic group of like-minded musicians, and The Skandalizers were born.
Our 7-piece band, complete with a horn section, boasts a vast repertoire of dancehall hits guaranteed to make any event unforgettable. We play everything from 2-Tone classics like “Gangsters,” “Rat Race,” “One Step Beyond,” “On My Radio,” and “Special Brew” to early reggae hits by artists such as Jimmy Cliff, Desmond Dekker, The Pioneers, and Susan Cadogan. We also put our unique ska twist on popular songs like “Somewhere Over The Rainbow,” “Minnie The Moocher,” and “All My Lovin’.”
Whether it’s a Friday night at the pub, a ska-themed birthday party, a wedding, or a corporate event, we promise to deliver a fantastic night out with a touch of the 60s and 70s.