The Supatones Band Biog

The Supatones came together in 2002, in the East Yorkshire city of Hull. Formed around the nucleus of bass guitarist Pat Pretorius (following stints in local punk band Freaks Union and Madness/Bad Manners tribute act, Badness) and Nicky Garton (vocals/saxophone) ex-Thiefs of Greed. The band was completed by drummer Rob Franks, Adam Skank Thompson on trombone, Wayne Willis on keyboards and trumpet, and Jo Jobo Moore (also a veteran of Badness) on guitar.

Combining a wide range of influences, from the 70's punk (The Clash, The Police) Reggae (Bob Marley) through the Two Tone Ska era, right through to current bands such as No Doubt, Sublime etc. They have brought some life and energy back to Ska music in the UK, after it's renaissance in recent years in the USA.

The band have clocked up a phenomenal number of miles touring the country since their formation, and have played over 300 shows in that time, appealing to both young and old alike, after all everyone loves a good skank, even if they don't know it says Pat. In 2003 Rob left the band, to be replaced on drums by AlanBeat Thief Smith who, subsequently, in an almost Spinal Tap way, departed to be replaced by current drummer Jonny Blackmore (ex prog rockers Mostly Autumn). It took a while to find a really great drummer with the groove we all wanted. If the groove isn't right then you can't skank properly, and I think we have him now, says Pat.

With a well gigged band, and tight brass section with baritone sax, tenor sax, trombone and trumpet, the band set about recording their original songs and have amassed an album and a half of material, some of which is showcased on their debut mini album Unity Avenue - released November 2004 on Do The Dog Records, the UK's premier Ska label.

Many of the songs are now very familiar with audiences across the UK, and even Europe, where the band have played their first overseas shows in Germany Austria, Italy and Israel. They have played alongside many luminaries in this time, including Bad Manners (who Pat and Jobo can be seen moonlighting for sometimes), The Beat, Neville Staples (ex Specials), The Stranglers, Spunge, The Horrorpops, The Hooters, World Idol star Kurt Nielsen to name but a few.

Late 2004 sees the band embark on a tour of the UK to promote Unity Avenue, taking in some larger venues, such as Carling Academy's in London, and, Birmingham, Wolverhampton Civic, as well as some smaller venues to reach all audiences. The Supatones are set to put Ska back on the Map.

Check the thisisUll.com Band Index on The Supatones

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