It is no secret that Mark - singer of long-running streetpunk legends Booze & Glory - loves Caribbean music. He has a well-documented affection for old school genres like rocksteady, calypso, and the original Jamaican ska.
"But my absolute favorite style," says Mark, "is early reggae. Boss Reggae - which started around 1968-69. The 'one-drop' beat, mento-style guitar, 'bubble' organ patterns, and 'muddy' bass sound - that's what the early reggae is all about."
Obviously, Mark is a student of the music, and about 20 years ago, he and a few friends had a reggae project that lasted a couple of years and a couple dozen local gigs before going their separate ways when Mark moved to the UK.
This music was not done with him though, which was the motivation for Booze & Glory to record their "Reggae Sessions" records, which re-imagined and re-arranged their streetpunk anthems with some assistance from Vespa & The Londonians. The strong positive response to this side project has now led to the inevitable conclusion: Mark needs a full-time reggae band.
Enter: The Gamblers. Mark has brought together a group of experienced and skilled musicians. Progress happened quickly thanks in part to producer Misiek, and now, at last, the first fruits of this project are finally ready for release with this new 7", featuring "Tonight" on the A-side and a cover of the genre classic "Let Your Yeah Be Yeah," written by the great Jimmy Cliff and originally recorded by the Pioneers.
"This is not 'pure' early reggae," cautions Mark. Those looking for complete authenticity would do well to remember it is 2024, not 1969. But what this 7" is, and what The Gamblers are, is the sound of an exciting modern band playing with all the inspiration, enthusiasm, love and respect for those classic boss sounds! Turn it up!
The "Tonight" single by the Gamblers is up for pre-order from Pirates Press Records on 7" Classic Black Vinyl big hole 45, and will be available everywhere January 17, 2025!
Tracklist:
Tonight
Let Your Yeah Be Yeah
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The indicated release date is only an estimated one. If there is a postponement, we will be update this online and you will be notified by email.
CAUTION! When you order this item, your order will only be sent to you completely on the day of the release. There is no split individual delivery.
