Ska rides again

By Walter J. Lyng, October 3rd, 2012

Although we've long since past the most recent heyday of the ska genre, there are many loyalists who remain, particularly in Montreal where the scene was especially significant in the mid to late ‘90s, giving rise to bands like The Planet Smashers and The Kingpins. Some local fans were so loyal, they started a ska festival four years ago. This year, it will run from October 11 to 14, featuring a number of both local and visiting artists, celebrating the genre that simply won't die.
“They found there was a lack of cohesion in the ska community,” says festival spokesperson and Montreal's 'Queen of Ska' Lorraine Muller. “They wanted to reinforce the community and to give the younger bands a platform on which they could really shine.”
One of the founding members of the Kingpins and also, to a certain extent, of local label Stomp Records, Muller went from being a sax player to front person at the height of the ska craze.
“I'm not necessarily comfortable with being up front but it's a pretty wonderful place to be,” says the West Island native. “We were involved during a time when the ska scene was really tight and we built something special.”
This year, Muller says she is especially looking forward to Victor Rice's participation in the New York City showcase at Petit Campus on Friday, October 12 at 9 p.m. A pioneer of the genre, Rice was a member of NYC bands such as The Scofflaws, the Stubborn All-Stars and Mephiskapheles. Although he primarily works a as a producer today, he agreed to take part in the festival as a musician.
“Victor Rice probably hasn't been on stage in seven years,” says Muller. “It's pretty exciting.”
Although the NYC showcase has an 18-plus age restriction, the following night's All-Skanadian Night at Club Soda is an all ages show and will feature, among others, The Planet Smashers and DJ Agent Jay of The Slackers. “It's always an exciting event and the bands we've chosen to play with The Planet Smashers really suit that genre,” says Muller.
The four-day festival concludes with a breakfast from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 14 at Ye Olde Orchard (20 Prince Arthur West), the spirit of which epitomizes the longevity of this upbeat genre.
“There's just something about the ska community that's really welcoming,” says Muller. “Because it touches so many sub genres, there's really something for everyone.”

For tickets and more information, visit www.montrealskafestival.ca