Mention of ska music will dredge up many different memories among fans of a certain age.
The genre is undergoing a mini-revival of sorts and, reflecting that, Ireland’s first ska festival is taking place this weekend in Tramore.
The Tramore Ska Fest starts today and runs for three days and nights following its official opening by mayor Joe Conway.
Among the highlights will be a performance tonight by 2Tone legends The Beat, led by Ranking Roger.
Their catalogue of much-loved hits includes Mirror in the Bathroom , Can't Get Used to Losing You and Too Nice to Talk To .
Music author Johnny Rogan is set to welcome visitors from all over the country to the festival and will say a few words on the evolution of ska music.
Indigenous talent will dominate the rest of the festival.
Acts that will be part of the line-up include Skazoo, the Dubtones, DJ Mado, DJ Bel Bionic from the Bionic Rats, the Seven Deadly Skins, the Jackman Brothers, and Syngery.
Meanwhile, the ballroom of the Grand Hotel in Tramore will be turned into a ska market tomorrow.
Ska memorabilia
This will see fans trading
a range of 2Tone memorabilia such as vintage clothes, records, books and more.
There will also be a range of ska-related musical events across the town’s pubs.
Those surviving right through until the festival’s closing night will be treated to the best of Skazz.
The band will be playing up-tempo ska/reggae, criss-crossed with pop, latin and blues influences. Their arrival is eagerly anticipated, organisers say, as is that of the experienced and multitalented nine -piece Little Beauties.
For more details, visit tramoreskafest.com
