The Skatalites

Keyser Soze

The Skatalites will perform June 16 at Harlow's in Sacramento. The internationally known Jamaican ska band has been performing since 1963. A number of events led to the band's breakup in 1965. However, members have been touring strong since 1983. Tommy McCook and Rolando Alphonso, founding members of the band, died in 1998. Cedric Brooks on tenor saxophone was added in 1999, and Val Douglas on the bass in 2005, leading to a resurgence and 2006 world tour. The band then returned to the studio and recorded "Be My Guest," with Ben Harper on vocals. That track was part of the Fats Domino tribute CD "Going Home," which benefitted victims of Hurricane Katrina.

The Skatalites have recorded on no fewer than 30 albums. And, drummer Lloyd Knibb is widely known as the inventor of the ska beat. There is so much history embodied in the band's music; for the true music lover, this is a must-see performance. Although the show is not yet listed on Harlow's event calendar, doors open at 8:30 and the music starts at 9:30 p.m. with opening act Keyser Soze. Advance tickets are $20 and available through Renegade Productions, at Harlow's and other local ticket outlets.